In Parshat Vayechi, the final one in Sefer Bereishit, the long lasting arguments between Yosef and his brothers come to a resolution. The events of the parsha shed light on how disagreements ended. We learn lessons on how Yaakov came into Egypt, Yaakov meeting Yosef, where he decided to live, the location of Yaakov's burial, and the order of blessing Menashe and Efraim, the two sons of Yosef.
The Ideological Argument
Rav Kook explains (Shmuot Hareaya, Vayeshev) that the argument between Yosef and his brothers was not about jealousy or hatred. Instead, it was about choosing the way the Nation of Israel should live and influence the world. How to do the proper "Tikkun Olam".
The brothers believed in remaining enclosed and separate from the gentiles to avoid being subjected to their influence. In contrast, Yosef believed in integration (not assimilation!) and this would be the way to effect positivity on the world. In Yosef's life, he definitely fulfilled this world-view; saving the land of Egypt and the entire world from a terrible famine and bringing blessing to all-- while causing a huge Kiddush Hashem. In every generation the question comes up repeatedly; what is the correct path and direction for Am Yisrael to take?
The Events
Yosef, once he revealed himself to his brothers, invited Yaakov to immediately join him in Egypt, specifically mentioning the great honor he had achieved (Bereishit 45:13). Perhaps, Yosef sees this as a spiritual accomplishment (remember the dreams?). Yaakov was concerned about leaving Eretz Yisrael, and waited for Hashem's approval (Rashi 46:3). He is concerned that this move will lead to a long-term spiritual decline and exile.
Before coming to Egypt, Yaakov makes sure to have a seperate location in Goshen, set by Yehuda (Yosef's rival), where there will be Torah learning (46:28 and the Rashi). This will preclude Am Yisrael from being influenced by Egyptian culture.
When the first meeting between Yaakov and Yosef occurs, the Torah describes Yosef falling on the neck of Yaakov and crying, although it doesn't say that Yaakov also cried. Rashi says that Yaakov did not cry, as at that very moment he was saying Kriat Shemah (46:29, Rashi). Perhaps Yaakov was trying to emphasize that while Yosef achieved great honor and a high position of royalty, we must constantly "remind" ourselves who the real Boss is, who conducts everything.
Later on, Yaakov requests not to be buried in Egypt and he demands that Yosef swear he will not allow that, but bury him in Eretz Yisroel. (47:29). Once again, he is trying to make sure this whole trip is merely a "detour" on our way back to Eretz Yisrael.
(An interesting fact--Yosef will also request to be buried in Eretz Yisrael, with the stipulation that it be done AFTER the redemption, when the entire nation will leave Egypt together. 50:25).
Efraim or Menashe
Next comes the "struggle" of who should be blessed first - Menashe or Efraim?
We need to understand that both of Yosef's children were born in Egypt. By blessing them we are determining what is our approach towards Yosef's journey to become the viceroy of Egypt. Are we capable of recognizing the blessing that came from Yosef's lifestyle?
At first, Yaakov wasn't able to bless them, having lost access to the Shechinah. Only after Yosef davened for the Schechinah to return can Yaakov bless them, which confirms that they were born legally and properly (48:9, Rashi).
What are the differences between the two sons of Yosef? Menashe represents the progress made by Yosef in Egypt. We know that Menashe was a political advisor to Yosef in the palace (42:23, Rashi). Efraim, on the other hand, was closer to Yaakov, learning Torah from him in Goshen (48:1, Rashi). Yosef wanted approval and recognition that his success in Egypt is all a part of the Almighty's plan. That is why he wanted Menashe to receive the "right hand", meaning the first blessing. Yaakov crossed his hands, giving Efraim (representing the centrality of the Torah) the first blessing.
Happy Ending
These are some of the "final words" and "small print" at the end of the contract ending the book of Bereshit. Which direction will Am Yisrael travel and the blueprint in surviving exile. Which world-view is more dominant, and how do we get to full redemption, and "Tikkun Olam".
i path triumphs (and both are needed in Am Yisrael), there is a happy ending to our book. Yosef and his brothers reunite. Yaakov blesses Yosef's descendants who were born in Egypt and all other children of his, and they all recite together the "Shema Yisrael" at Yaakov's deathbed.
Good luck on the journey in Sefer Shemot!