To clarify this concept; Regarding our Parsha it is explained in Chassidus, כד that Yehudah and Yosef represent the two concepts of ‘study’ and of ‘practical application’. This issue is debated in the Talmud. Which of the two is greater? Is Torah study greater or is the performance of Mitzvos greater? This is because as the Possuk states: כה יְהוּדָה גָבַר בְאֶחָיו Yehudah prevailed over his brothers, כו and is also the king, whose primary focus is to determine the practical application. This is also Dovid HaMelech’s main vocation as the Possuk emphasises וְעַבְדִּי דָוִּד that Dovid HaMelech is described as Hashem’s servant, whereby the concept of slavery particularly relates to practical work. כז
Yosef’s vocation is study, for study leads to an increase in knowledge. Through study one can increase in understanding and in grasp. This is the ethos of Yosef כח meaning ‘to increase’. This is also Ephraim’s vocation - to increase - for his name comes from the word כט הִּפְרַנִּי meaning to be fruitful; to increase and add. Ultimately the intention is to combine ל study with action, so that the study shall have an effect on the practical application, and the action should affect the study. The effect of study on the practical application is discussed in the Rebbe Rashab’s לא Maamor לב entitled Hemshech לג from the year 5666, which states: “When someone who is studying Torah knows that his practical application is dependent on his studying, לד then he will act in complete self-nullification לה and will focus on the truth concerning this Halocha.” לו This is, because he knows of its importance concerning the actual performance of that Mitzvah.
