Parashat Beshalach meaning “When He Sent” (Exodus 13:17–17:16) follows the Israelites as they leave Mitzrayim, witness miraculous divine deliverance, and begin their journey through the wilderness, deepening their relationship with G-d through moments of dependence and trust.

Pharaoh’s Pursuit and the Parting of the Sea (Exodus 14:1–31): After allowing the Israelites to leave, Pharaoh and his servants regret their decision and rally the Egyptian army to pursue them. G-d tells Moshe that He will harden Pharaoh’s heart once more so that the Egyptians will chase after Israel, ultimately leading to His glory over Pharaoh and his forces, demonstrating to Mitzrayim that He is the L-RD. The Israelites find themselves trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s approaching army. Terrified, they turn on Moshe, questioning, “Was it because there were no graves in Mitzrayim that you brought us here to die in the wilderness?” (Exodus 14:11). Moshe responds with confidence: “Do not be afraid. Stand firm, and you will see the deliverance the L-RD will bring you today” (Exodus 14:13). G-d instructs Moshe to stretch his staff over the sea, parting the waters with a powerful east wind and creating a path of dry ground flanked by walls of water. The Israelites pass through safely, but when the Egyptian army follows, Moshe stretches his hand once more, and the waters return, drowning Pharaoh’s army. Witnessing this great act, Israel stands in awe and believes in the L-RD and His servant Moshe (Exodus 14:31).

The Song of the Sea (Exodus 15:1–21): In response to their miraculous deliverance, Moshe and the Israelites sing a song of praise to the L-RD, extolling His strength and the salvation He provided. Miriam, Moshe’ sister, leads the women with tambourines and dances, celebrating the L-RD’s triumph over the Egyptians.

Bitter Waters Made Sweet (Exodus 15:22–27): After three days of traveling in the desert without water, the Israelites reach Marah but find the waters there undrinkable. The people complain to Moshe, and G-d instructs him to throw a piece of wood into the water, making it sweet and fit to drink. Here, G-d introduces a principle of obedience and healing: “If you listen carefully to the L-RD your G-d and do what is right in His eyes, … I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the L-RD, who heals you” (Exodus 15:26).

Provision of Manna and Quail (Exodus 16:1–36): The Israelites soon complain of hunger, yearning for the food they had in Mitzrayim. G-d responds by sending quail in the evening and, in the morning, a substance like frost called manna, providing bread from heaven. He instructs the people to gather only enough for each day, testing their obedience, but on the sixth day, they are to gather a double portion so they can rest on the Shabbat. This event marks the introduction of the Shabbat as a day of rest, underscoring its importance as part of their relationship with G-d. The Israelites are sustained by manna throughout their journey in the wilderness, a sign of G-d’s daily provision and care.

Water from the Rock at Rephidim (Exodus 17:1–7): Again, the Israelites face a shortage of water, and they quarrel with Moshe, fearing they will die of thirst. G-d instructs Moshe to strike the rock at Horeb with his staff, and water flows out for the people to drink. This event highlights G-d’s patience and provision even amid the people’s complaints, reinforcing His continual presence with them.

Battle with Amalek (Exodus 17:8–16): As the Israelites journey on, the Amalekites attack them at Rephidim. Moshe sends Joshua to lead the battle, while he stands on a hill with his hands raised, symbolizing reliance on G-d’s power. As long as Moshe holds his hands up, Israel prevails, but when he lowers them, Amalek gains ground. Aharon and Hur support Moshe’ arms, enabling Israel to achieve victory. Moshe then builds an altar, naming it “The L-RD is My Banner” (Exodus 17:15), acknowledging that their triumph came through G-d’s strength.

Key Themes to Consider:

Faith in G-d’s Deliverance: The crossing of the Red Sea is a foundational event demonstrating G-d’s power and commitment to His people.

Dependence on G-d’s Provision: The bitter waters turned sweet, the manna and quail, and water from the rock underscore Israel’s dependence on G-d for sustenance.

Establishment of the Shabbat: The command to gather twice the manna before the Shabbat emphasizes its importance as a day set apart for rest and faith in G-d’s provision.

Spiritual Battle and Divine Strength: The battle with Amalek illustrates that success comes through reliance on G-d, not human strength alone.

Parashat Beshalach recounts G-d’s mighty acts in securing Israel’s freedom and nurturing their growing faith. Through provision, guidance, and protection, G-d lays the foundation for Israel’s trust in Him, underscoring His role as deliverer and sustainer.