Parashat Beshalach

Parashat Beshalach is one of the most dramatic portions in the Torah, describing the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea (Kriyat Yam Suf), the Israelites' journey through the desert, and God's ongoing care for His people. This parashah highlights themes of faith, divine providence, and the transition from slavery to freedom.

1. The Exodus Begins

  • God leads the Israelites out of Egypt “by way of the wilderness” to avoid immediate confrontation with the Philistines.
  • The Israelites carry Joseph's bones with them, fulfilling the promise to bring him to the Land of Israel.
  • God guides the people with a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, symbolizing His constant presence.

2. The Splitting of the Red Sea (Kriyat Yam Suf)

  • Pharaoh changes his mind and chases the Israelites with his army.
  • The Israelites panic, but Moses reassures them, saying:
    “The Lord will fight for you, and you shall be silent.”
  • God commands Moses to stretch his staff over the sea, causing the waters to split, creating dry land for the Israelites to cross.
  • The Egyptians pursue them, but God causes the waters to return, drowning Pharaoh’s army.

3. The Song at the Sea (Shirat HaYam)

  • The Israelites sing the Song of the Sea (Shirat HaYam), praising God for their salvation:
    “Who is like You, O Lord, among the mighty?”
  • Miriam leads the women in song and dance, celebrating the miracle.

4. Bitter Waters Turn Sweet (Marah)

  • The Israelites journey into the desert and find bitter water at Marah.
  • God instructs Moses to throw a piece of wood into the water, making it sweet.
  • This test shows God's care and the need for faith in divine providence.

5. Manna from Heaven

  • The people complain about the lack of food.
  • God provides manna from heaven each morning and quail in the evening.
  • The Israelites are commanded to collect only what they need daily, except on Friday when they gather a double portion for Shabbat.

6. Water from the Rock

  • At Rephidim, the Israelites complain of thirst.
  • God commands Moses to strike a rock, bringing forth water to sustain the people.

7. War with Amalek

  • The Amalekites attack the Israelites.
  • Moses prays on a hilltop with his hands raised, while Joshua leads the battle below.
  • When Moses' hands are raised, Israel prevails; when he lowers them, Amalek gains strength.
  • Aaron and Hur support Moses’ hands, leading to Israel's victory.

Key Themes:

  1. Faith and Trust in God:

    • The crossing of the Red Sea tests the Israelites' ability to trust God even when their situation seems hopeless.

  2. Divine Providence:

    • God provides for His people through miracles like the manna, sweetened water, and protection from enemies.

  3. The Power of Prayer and Leadership:

    • Moses' leadership and constant prayers play a crucial role in guiding the people.

  4. Gratitude vs. Complaint:

    • The Israelites alternate between praising God and complaining, reflecting the human struggle with faith during hardship.

  5. Shabbat and Daily Dependence on God:

    • The giving of the manna introduces the concept of Shabbat as a day of rest and trust in God's provision.

Conclusion:

Parashat Beshalach marks the Israelites' first steps toward becoming a free and faithful nation. It teaches that freedom comes not only from physical liberation but also from learning to trust God’s guidance and providence. The miracles of this parashah remain central to Jewish memory, especially in the daily recitation of the Song of the Sea and the celebration of Pesach.

Back to blog