Our Parsha begins by recalling G-D’s promise to give the land of Israel to the Israelites. He explains that He hadn’t mentioned the covenant until now because Israel had not cried out for help and neglected their connection with G-D. Now, with their cry, G-D “remembers” the covenant and promises Moshe redemption.
It might seem puzzling why G-D waited 210 years to redeem the Israelites. The key lies in the significance of this period and by seeing the fundamental differences between Am Israel and the Egyptian’s. By paying attention to the contrast between Pharaoh and Moshe it highlights the difference between Israel and Egypt.
Pharaoh saw himself as a god, avoiding any display of human weakness. In contrast, Moshe’s humility, constantly refusing G-D’s call, shows his awareness of his limitations.
Another key difference is how each person receives sustenance. Egypt’s water came from the self-sufficient Nile, while in the land of Israel we rely on rain from G-D. This dependence on rain keeps Am Israel connected to G-D, while Egypt’s self-sufficiency led Pharaoh to see himself as divine.
The Israelites’ suffering in Egypt caused them to turn back to G-D. Only then did He “remember” the covenant and bring redemption. The Torah warns us that in times of prosperity, we may forget G-D, but when we cry out, He is always close and ready to return to us.
May we strive to stay connected to G-D without needing hardship to remind us.
Shabbat shalom,
Rav Ari Haber
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