Parashat Beshalach 5785

by Rabbi Margie Cella

Parashat Beshalach tells the dramatic story of our liberation from Egypt, and the parting of the Red Sea; the Israelites pass through on dry land, escaping Pharaoh and his army, who are drowned in the Sea as the waters close in on them. Moses leads the people in the beautiful Shirat haYam, followed by Miriam and the women, praising God for their deliverance in song and dance.

Later, we read of the manna through which God provided sustenance to the nation during the years that they were in the wilderness. Each person gathered daily exactly the amount they needed, no more, no less. On Fridays, they gathered double the amount so that they would have enough for Shabbat (thus we have two loaves of challah on our Shabbat tables).

Finally, we read about the battle with the Amalekites, who attacked the Israelites in the wilderness. As Joshua led the army in battle, Moses went to the top of a hill and raised his hands while holding the rod of God. When Moses held up his hands, Joshua and his troops prevailed; if he lowered his hands, the Amalekites prevailed. With time, Moses became weary of holding up his hands. So, Aaron and Hur gave Moses a stone to sit on, while they, standing on either side of him, held up his hands to support him.

Today we all must follow in the example of Aaron and Hur. We, too, must support our beloved Eretz Israel in any way that we can. Some of us can go on volunteer missions to Israel. Some can donate supplies for the soldiers of the IDF. Some can make donations to Masorti Olami or Mercaz, or to our sister kehilot in Israel. All of us can support Israel with our prayers. We must stand together as one. 

Am Yisrael Chai! All people of Israel Live!