But now do not be sad...that you sold me here (Gen. 45:5)
According to the Midrash, the word "now" refers to the act of teshuva, sincerely repenting of one's misdeeds and returning to G-d. Thus, in effect Joseph was saying to his brothers, "If you are truly intent on doing teshuva and regret having sold me, 'do not be sad' - do not allow yourselves to wallow in sadness. For true teshuva can only be attained through joy..."
(Mishmeret Itamar)
The emotion of sadness is essentially selfish, as it is derived from an individual's feeling that something, either spiritual or material, is lacking that rightfully belongs to him. Such an outlook concentrates solely on the self, rather than on others.
(Rabbi Chanoch Henoch of Alexander)
Reprinted from the Parshat Vayigash 5761/2000 edition of L’Chaim.
