Shabbat Beshalah 5782
After releasing the Israelites, Pharaoh realizes that they aren’t coming back, and regrets his decision. He gathers his crack chariot corps and chases down the Israelites, trapping them by the Sea of Reeds. The miracle that ensues inspires another miracle–the Israelites finally have faith in God and in Moshe, God’s emissary. That faith is tested soon after, as they experience anxiety about water, food, and war in rapid succession. Parshat Beshalah is famous for the Song at the Sea, and we chant Shirat HaYam with special enhanced trope worthy of the majesty of the miracle.
My goal in offering the weekly musical scavenger hunt is to entice people to read the Torah portion carefully, as well as to have some fun with music. Even if you don’t care for the video clips, it’s worthwhile to read the parshah anyway! For those who want to play along, why did I think of these songs?
Answers will be revealed after Shabbat ma’ariv and havdalah, which begins this week at 5:25 PM. Remember that through the end of January, we are having minhah at 12:25 PM, after morning services and kiddush.
Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom and happy listening,
Rabbi David Wise
Candle lighting: 4:33 PM
Torah Reading: Exodus 13:17-17:16
Haftarah: Judges 4:4-5:31
