From the week of February 7

The Exodus from Egypt is not quite completed. The actual “exodus” in last week’s Torah sedrah, is concluded in this  portion as Israel once again confronts the God who brings about freedom. That encounter happens at the shores of the Reed Sea. (not the Red Sea, which is 300 miles away).

Be’shallach means “in sending away.” It is part of the opening line which states that as Pharaoh finally lets the people go, they take the long route through the Sinai Peninsula, rather than the direct northern route through the Gaza strip into Canaan.

This Sabbath is called Shabbat Shirah, the “song of the Sea,” because of the special poetry encompassed in chapter 15 of Exodus.

After the crossing, with all the metaphors that are embedded in this story, the Israelites sing a powerful military song of triumph. The story of the liberation also includes a brief song of triumph enunciated by Miriam and the women. (probably the ancient text included a much longer version of this song).

The Haggadah for Pesach includes all this in its narrative, and all manner of midrashim are used to indicate the miraculous nature of this redemption story.

Join us for a wonderful Torah discussion this Shabbat morning.