Descent into Slavery
…traveled with Jacob in a list almost identical to that of Genesis 46, emphasizing the connection between the books of Genesis and Exodus. The Torah goes on to describe the…
Free Will and Pharaoh’s Hardened Heart
…Exodus story, appearing no less than 20 times in the Book of Exodus. It should be noted that when God initially instructs Moses, he forewarns that he would do so…
What Did Moses Actually See When God Showed Him His Back?
There is no doubt that Moses was close to God, even speaking with Him “face to face, as one man speaks to another” (Exodus 33:11). But Moses wanted even more…
Shabbat as a Sign and a Covenant
Shabbat, the Sabbath, is the seventh day of the week and the culmination of creation. Exodus (31:12-17) gives it an additional special meaning, describing it as “a sign” and “eternal…
What Does the Command to Redeem the Firstborn have to do with the Exodus?
…the Exodus (Exodus 13:13): But every firstling ass you shall redeem with a sheep; if you do not redeem it, you must break its neck. And you must redeem every…
Can we Bring the Passover Sacrifice Today?
While still in Egypt, the Children of Israel were commanded to perform the ritual sacrifice of a lamb on the eve of the Exodus from Egypt. Unlike later Passover sacrifices…
Was Midian the Cradle of the Exodus or the Enemy of Israel?
…Epher, Hanok, Abida, and Eldaah (Genesis 25:4; 1 Chronicles 1:33). It is interesting to note that despite being described as a Midianite in Exodus, Jethro is referred to twice in…
Jethro: Midianite Priest and Father-in-law of Moses
The Torah portion, comprised of Exodus 18:1–20:23, is named after Moses’ Midianite father-in-law, Jethro. It tells of Jethro’s counsel to Moses, and God’s revelation of the Ten Commandments to the…
The Biblical Symbolism Of Passover Foods
…Abib, for in it you went forth from Egypt; and none shall appear before Me empty-handed; Exodus 23:15 Karpas is dipped in salty water, said to represent the tears of…
From Egypt to Mount Sinai
…(Exodus 12:37) on the 15th of Nissan. Their first stop on the journey from Egypt is Succoth (Exodus 12:37). From Succoth they travel to Etham (Exodus 13:19). They camp between…