Two Questions about the Parsha

 Joseph tells Pharaoh that the fact that his dream was repeated twice signified its veracity and the immediacy with which it would transpire. Is that true of every dream we find in the bible? The dreams of the butler and baker duo were not repeated yet both unfolded immediately, and proved as true as life and death. 

A second question, if I may. The Midrash, which I have begun to enjoy immensely, relates that Yaakov Avinu saw in divine inspiration that his son Joseph was still alive, prior to having received that news from his sons. Why is it that the Midrash takes that tack? Usually, if not always, the Midrash seeks to illuminate a point/complexity that arises from the written tradition; something requires clarification, elucidation to hone the educational or textual point being conveyed. 

But, in this case, it is so clear that the simple meaning of the Torah's verses - his very spirit became restored when he heard that Joseph was still alive - that it is hard to understand what it was the Midrash was trying to bring across. Any comments/insights would be most helpful! 

Shabbat shalom,

Yoav Gedalia

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