February 8, 2025 · י׳ שבט תשפ״ה
Parashat Beshalach · פרשת בשלח
A PEEK AT THE PARSHA Parshat Beshalach tells the dramatic story of Bnei Yisrael’s journey out of Egypt and their first steps toward becoming a free nation under Hashem’s guidance. After Pharaoh finally lets them go, Hashem leads them in a miraculous way—by a pillar of cloud during the day and a pillar of fire at night. Instead of taking the shortest route to Eretz Yisrael, Hashem brings them toward the Yam Suf (Red Sea). Meanwhile, Pharaoh regrets letting Bnei Yisrael leave and gathers his army to chase after them. When Bnei Yisrael see the Egyptian chariots approaching, they panic and cry out to Moshe. Hashem tells Moshe to lift his staff over the water, and an incredible miracle occurs: The sea splits into two walls, and Bnei Yisrael
ONE BIG IDEA In Parshat Beshalach, Bnei Yisrael face a huge challenge—the Red Sea is in front of them, and the Egyptian army is behind. Everyone is scared, but Nachshon ben Aminadav does something brave. He jumps into the sea, even though it looks impossible to cross. As soon as he steps in, the waters begin to split. We can learn from Nachshon that sometimes we might feel scared to take the first step, but Nachshon teaches us that faith and courage can lead to amazing miracles. When we trust Hashem, He helps us through tough times.
walk through on dry land! As soon as the Egyptians try to follow, the waters crash down on them, drowning Pharaoh’s army. Seeing this miracle, Bnei Yisrael break out in song—Shirat HaYam, the Song of the Sea— praising Hashem for saving them. Miriam, Moshe’s sister, leads the women in singing and dancing with tambourines. After this great salvation, Bnei Yisrael continue traveling through the desert. They struggle with thirst and hunger, but Hashem provides for them. First, He makes bitter waters sweet so they can drink. Then, He sends special food from the heavens—mahn (manna), which falls every morning and tastes like whatever they want. Hashem commands them to collect a double portion on Friday, since no mahn falls on Shabbat. This is one of the first times Bnei Yisrael learn about the holiness of Shabbat and the importance of preparing for it. Later, the people complain about a lack of water again, and Hashem tells Moshe to strike a rock, bringing forth fresh water. But their challenges aren’t over. Suddenly, the nation of Amalek attacks them! Moshe instructs Yehoshua to lead the soldiers, while Moshe stands on a hill and raises his hands in prayer. As long as his hands are up, Bnei Yisrael are victorious. When he gets tired, Aharon and Chur help support his hands, and Bnei Yisrael win the battle.
TIMES - זמנים Candle-lighting: 5:02pm Havdalah: 6:00pm allah: 5:25pm