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<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>*************************************************************************<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><font size=2
face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold'>THE TANACH STUDY
CENTER www.tanach.org<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><i><font size=2
face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;font-style:italic'>In
Memory of Rabbi Abraham Leibtag<o:p></o:p></span></font></i></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><font size=2
face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold'>Shiurim in Chumash
& Navi by Menachem Leibtag<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>*************************************************************************<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><i><font size=2
face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;font-style:italic'>SEFER
SHMOT - Introduction<o:p></o:p></span></font></i></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><i><font size=2
face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;font-style:italic'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></i></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Is
Sefer Shmot simply a continuation of Sefer Breishit - or is there something
that makes it unique?</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> For
example, are the Ten Commandments and the laws of Parshat Mishpatim included in
this book, simply because they were given 'first' - or should we look for a
thematic connection between those laws and the story of the Exodus?</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> As
our series of shiurim rests on the assumption that each "sefer"
[book] of CHUMASH [= the five 'books'] carries a unique theme, we will begin
our study of Sefer Shmot in an attempt to identify its primary theme. Afterward,
we will consider that theme in our study of each individual chapter or unit. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> In
our study of Sefer Breishit, we employed this approach to uncover its primary
theme of "bechira" – i.e. how & why God chose Avraham Avinu
to become the forefather of a nation that will bring the Name of God to
mankind. In those shiurim, we demonstrated how that theme helped us understand
the deeper meaning of each story and the progression of its events. Now, in
our study of Sefer Shmot, we will employ a similar approach.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Therefore,
we begin our study with quick overview of Sefer Shmot, in an attempt to find not
only its underlying theme, but also its thematic connection to - and
distinction from - Sefer Breishit.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:9.0pt;
font-weight:bold'>A TABLE OF CONTENTS<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> To
identify a common theme of any book, it is helpful to first make a list of its
major topics and then to contemplate what connects these topics together. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Let's
see what happens when we apply this approach to Sefer Shmot.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> If
we limit ourselves to a discussion of the most general categories, I think that
everyone would agree with the following table of contents for Sefer Shmot:</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 1)
"Yetziat Mitzraim" (the Exodus/ chaps. 1->17)</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> [including
the journey to Har Sinai]</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 2)
"Ma'amad Har Sinai" (the Theophany / chaps. 18->24)</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> [including
the mitzvot of Parshat Mishpatim]</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 3)
"The Mishkan" (the Tabernacle / chaps. 25->31)</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> [God's
commandment to build the Mishkan]</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 4)
"Chet ha'Egel" (the sin of the Golden Calf/ 32->34)</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> [including
the story of the second luchot]</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 5)
"Building the Mishkan" (its construction/ 35->40)</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> [concluding
with the "shchina" dwelling thereupon]</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Therefore,
to identify an overall theme for the entire book, we must search for a theme
that connects all of these topics together. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>RAMBAN'S APPROACH - GALUT & GEULAH<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Ramban,
in his short introduction to Sefer Shmot, attempts to do exactly this, i.e. to
identify a common theme for the entire book. [It is recommended that your
first read this Ramban.]</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> After
defining Sefer Breishit as "sefer ha'yetzira" [the book of the
creation of the world and of the people of Israel (and hence the patterns of
its history)], Ramban proceeds to explain why Sefer Shmot begins with the story
of Yetziat Mitzraim:</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt'>"... after completing Breishit, a special sefer is
dedicated to describe the first "galut" [exile] as specifically
decreed [in Sefer Breishit [see 15:13-16] and Bnei Yisrael's redemption from
that GALUT..." (see Ramban's intro to Shmot1:1)</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> After
explaining why Sefer Shmot begins with 'the redemption from exile' (as
forecasted in Sefer Breishit), next Ramban must explain the progression in
Sefer Shmot from Yetziat Mitzraim to Ma'amad Har Sinai, and then to the
Mishkan:</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt'>"... and the GALUT is not over until they [Bnei
Yisrael] return to the level of their forefathers... and even once they achieve
their freedom from Egypt, they are not considered redeemed yet, for they still
wander in the desert... But once they arrive at HAR SINAI to receive the Torah
and build the MISHKAN, and God's shechina dwells upon them - then they return
to the level of their forefathers... and are then considered totally
REDEEMED..."</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Note
how Ramban understands the concept of "geulah" [redemption] as the
underlying theme of the <b><span style='font-weight:bold'>entire</span></b>
Sefer. This allows him to identify a common theme to the various topics of
Yetziat Mitzraim, Matan Torah, and Mishkan. Although one could argue with
Ramban's conclusions, he clearly assumes - as we did in our introduction - that
there is a need to study each "sefer" in search of its unifying
theme. In fact, Ramban opens his commentary to each "sefer" of
Chumash in a very similar manner, i.e. with an attempt to identify its theme,
and thus explain its flow of topic. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> In
our own study of Sefer Shmot, we will follow a direction similar to Ramban's,
showing how all the various stories in Sefer Shmot carry a common theme (even
though we may arrive at a slightly different conclusion). However, we begin our
own study by focusing a bit more on its thematic connection to Sefer Breishit.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>FROM BREISHIT TO SHMOT<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> We
can readily understand why Sefer Shmot begins with the story of Yetziat
Mitzraim, as that story appears to continue the narrative of Sefer Breishit.
However, if Sefer Shmot simply continues the story of Sefer Breishit, why is it
necessary to begin a new book?</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> To
help clarify how these books differ, let's consider Sefer Breishit as God's '<b><span
style='font-weight:bold'>master-plan</span></b>', while Sefer Shmot can be
understood as the first stage of its '<b><span style='font-weight:bold'>implementation'</span></b>.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> In
other words, the "bechira" process - that emerged as the primary
theme of Sefer Breishit - can be viewed as God's master plan for the creation
of a special nation that will one-day represent Him and sanctify His Name. As
such, the book began with the underlying reason for God's need of this nation
(chapters 1->11), followed by His choice of the forefathers of that nation -
and hence the stories of Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov -focusing on the covenantal
promises and which specific children would be chosen (chapters 12->50).
This 'planning stage' reaches its conclusion as all of Yaakov's children are
not only chosen, but also united (after the events of "mechirat
Yosef") - and the 'seeds' of this nation have planted in the land of
Egypt.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Sefer
Shmot can be viewed as the first stage in God's implementation of this plan. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Recall
God's opening promise to Avraham Avinu that he will become a "goy
gadol" - a great nation (see 12:1-3). That's the 'plan'- therefore, Sefer
Shmot begins by explaining HOW Bnei Yisrael became that great nation (Shmot
1:1-6). </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Recall
as well that in His covenant with Avraham Avinu ("brit bein
ha'btarim" /see 15:13-18), God forecasted a period of ‘slavery and
oppression in a foreign land’; hence the first chapter of Sefer Shmot continues
with the story of how that enslavement began (see 1:7-20). In the ensuing
story of the Exodus (Shmot chapters 2 thru 15), God fulfills that next stage of
that covenant by punishing their oppressor and redeeming His nation from Egypt.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> The
next major topic of Sefer Shmot is "Ma'amad Har Sinai" - which flows
directly from the story of Yetziat Mitzraim - for in order for God's master
plan to be fulfilled, Bnei Yisrael must receive a set of laws that will make
them that special nation. To prepare them for that transformative moment, various
events take place on their journey from Egypt to Mount Sinai (see Shmot chapters
14 thru 17). Upon their arrival at Sinai, the covenant is finalized and the
first set of Laws are given, as described in Shmot chapters 18 thru 24. [In
our of detailed study, we will also explore the thematic connection between
“brit Sinai and "brit mila" ("l'hiyot lcha l'Elokim -see
Breishit 17:7-11).</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> From
this point on, the logic behind the progression of topics in Sefer Shmot
becomes more difficult to ascertain. Considering that Bnei Yisrael arrive at
Har Sinai to receive the entire Torah, we would expect Sefer Shmot to record
ALL the mitzvot they received at that time. Instead, Sefer Shmot records only
SOME of those mitzvot (the "dibrot" & Parshat Mishpatim), and
then focuses primarily on the mitzvot relating to the Mishkan, while other
commandments given at Har Sinai are recorded elsewhere in Chumash – i.e.
in Vayikra, Bamidbar, and Devarim. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt'>In our study of Sefer Shmot, we will need to explain
why only one unit of those mitzvot (i.e. the laws in Parshat Mishpatim) are
recorded in Sefer Shmot ;and then consider why its focus shifts exclusively to
the laws of the Mishkan.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> For
example, in his commentary to Shmot 25:1, Ramban explains why specifically the
Mishkan (chapters 25 thru 31) emerges as the next major topic – for Bnei
Yisrael now require a symbol of their special relationship with God. The
Mishkan will remind Am Yisrael of their covenantal responsibilities; allow the
nation to approach God, and demonstrate (to themselves and the other nations)
how God dwells in their midst. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Our
shiurim will also discuss Rashi’s approach, highlighting the intricate
thematic connections between Mishkan, Maamad Har Sinai <b><span
style='font-weight:bold'>and</span></b> the sin of the Golden calf ["chet
ha'egel"].</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> In
light of the events of "chet ha'egel", a serious doubt arises concerning
the very possibility of this special relationship. Sefer Shmot describes how
that first covenant is broken, and how and why a new covenant is be forged that
must include God’s attributes of Mercy (see Shmot chapters 32 thru 34). In
its aftermath, the Mishkan is finally built and God's presence dwells with His
Nation (chapters 35 thru 40), a sign that the relationship has been fixed. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt'>When Sefer Shmot reaches its conclusion, everything is
ready for what should be the next stage of God's master plan – i.e. Bnei
Yisrael should travel from Har Sinai to Canaan and inherit the Land. Why that
does not happen, will emerge as a primary topic in our study of Sefer Bamidbar.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Based
on this thematic setting, our opening shiur (on Parshat Shmot) will discuss the
significance of God's "hitgalut" to Moshe Rabeinu at the burning
bush, while the shiurim on Parshiot Va'eyra & Bo will focus on Moshe's
mission to prepare Bnei Yisrael for their redemption. Our shiur on Parshat
B'shalach will discuss the need for the various events that take place during
Bnei Yisrael's journey from Egypt to Har Sinai. In Parshiot Yitro &
Mishpatim we will discuss the dialectic nature of the events at Ma'amad Har
Sinai, as well as the special nature of the mitzvot in Parshat Mishpatim and
their covenantal significance. Finally, our shiurim from Parshat Terumah through
Parshat Pekudei will focus on the conceptual relationship between the Mishkan,
Ma'amad Har Sinai and "chet ha'egel."</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> As
usual, it is highly recommended that you use the study questions to prepare for
the shiurim (even though the shiurim are written so that you can follow even
without advanced preparation). Also, it is helpful to study using a Tanach
Koren (or similar). This will make it much easier for you to determine the
flow of topic and theme from 'parshia' to 'parshia.'</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> b'hatzlacha!</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> menachem</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'>=======</span></font></p>
<font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:Arial'><br
clear=all style='page-break-before:always'>
</span></font>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:9.0pt;
font-weight:bold'>INTRO PART II /<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=2 face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;
font-weight:bold'> For Parshat Shmot<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=2 face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;
font-weight:bold'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=2 face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;
font-weight:bold'> USING OUTLINES<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> We
conclude our introductory shiur by bringing an example of how 'outlining' the
flow of 'parshiot' can serve as an excellent study tool, especially helpful
when searching for a central theme in any given unit. <b><span
style='font-weight:bold'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> In
the following table we first list each 'parshia' in Parshat Shmot - and assign
a short title to describe its primary topic.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Afterward,
we will attempt to transform this list into an outline, by considering its
thematic progression. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt'>[It will help show how Parshat Shmot 'sets the stage'
for the upcoming events in Sefer Shmot, as discussed in our introductory
shiur.]</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'> <u>'PARSHIA'</u> <u>TOPIC</u><o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 1:1‑7 Bnei
Yisrael multiply, becoming a nation in Egypt.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> (linking
Sefer Breishit to Sefer Shmot)</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 1:8‑22 The
enslavement and its hardships begin</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 2:1‑22 The
birth and early life of Moshe Rabeinu</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> [up
until his arrival in Midyan ]</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 2:23‑25 God
hears the crying out of Bnei Yisrael</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'>.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> ** 3:1‑4:17 God's
"HITGALUT" TO MOSHE AT THE "SNEH"</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> [Moshe
receives his MISSION & clarifications].</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 4:18‑26
Moshe leaves Midyan to fulfill his mission.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:45.35pt;text-indent:-28.35pt'><font
size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'>4:27‑4:31 Moshe meets
the elders, to inform the </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:62.35pt;text-indent:5.65pt'><font size=1
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'>nation in regard to their forthcoming
redemption</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:45.35pt;text-indent:-45.35pt'><font
size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:45.0pt;text-indent:-28.0pt'><font size=1
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'>5:1‑3 Moshe &
Aharon go to Pharaoh, requesting </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:45.0pt;text-indent:-45.0pt'><font size=1
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> permission
to worship God in the desert</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> 5:4‑6:1 The
mission appears to backfire;</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Pharaoh
doubles their workload.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'> </span></font></b>[Chapters 6 thru 14 describe how
his mission is completed!]<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>BUILDING UP TO THE BURNING BUSH<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> We
posit that the story of God's "hitgalut" [revelation] to Moshe at the
burning bush should be considered the highlight of Parshat Shmot, for </span>the
mission that Moshe receives at the "sneh" - to take Bnei Yisrael out
of Egypt - will emerge as the primary topic of the first half of Sefer Shmot, while
the first two chapters serve as important background for that
"hitgalut". <o:p></o:p></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Let's
explain how and why:<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Recall
from our shiurim on Sefer Breishit how its primary theme [the
"bechira" process] progressed with each "hitgalut", i.e.
each time that God spoke to the Avot. For example, in God's first
"hitgalut" to Avraham Avinu, He introduced the concept of a special
nation. In each subsequent "hitgalut" to the Avot, the details of
God's future relationship with that nation slowly unfolded. </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> In
a similar manner, we will see how the primary theme of Sefer Shmot is first
introduced in God's opening "hitgalut" to Moshe Rabeinu at the
burning bush (see 3:1‑>4:17).</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> As
this "hitgalut" is not described until chapter three, the first two
chapters of Sefer Shmot serve as their 'backdrop':</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:36.0pt;text-indent:-18.0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><font
size=1 face=Symbol><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:Symbol'><span
style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<font size=1 face="Times New Roman"><span
style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>
</span></font></span></span></font><![endif]><span dir=LTR>The first parshia in
Sefer Shmot (1:1-7) explains how Bnei Yisrael became a NATION in the land of
Egypt, thus fulfilling God's promise to Yaakov in the final
"hitgalut" of Sefer Breishit (see 46:3-4 & our shiur on
Vayigash). </span></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:36.0pt;text-indent:-18.0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><font
size=1 face=Symbol><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:Symbol'><span
style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<font size=1 face="Times New Roman"><span
style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>
</span></font></span></span></font><![endif]><span dir=LTR>The next parshia
(1:8-22) describes how the enslavement began, as foreseen in "brit bein
ha'btarim" (15:13-15).</span></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:36.0pt;text-indent:-18.0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><font
size=1 face=Symbol><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:Symbol'><span
style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<font size=1 face="Times New Roman"><span
style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>
</span></font></span></span></font><![endif]><span dir=LTR>The first 'parshia'
in Chapter two (2:1-22) describes how God prepares His redemption with the
story of birth of Moshe Rabeinu until he runs away to Midyan. </span></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:36.0pt;text-indent:-18.0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><font
size=1 face=Symbol><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:Symbol'><span
style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<font size=1 face="Times New Roman"><span
style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>
</span></font></span></span></font><![endif]><span dir=LTR>In the final
'parshia' (2:23-25), we told of how the redemption finally begins, as God hears
the cries of Bnei Yisrael's oppression.</span></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:18.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> The
stage is now set for God's opening "hitgalut" to Moshe Rabeinu in
chapter three, where he will receive his mission to redeem Bnei Yisrael from
Egypt and bring them to the Promised Land.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> To
better appreciate how the progression of topics in that key 'parshia', we now
demonstrate another tool - that is also helpful when studying Chumash. We take
an individual 'parshia', and divide it into paragraphs, and then make an
outline to help follow its progression. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> T</span>he
following outline organizes this entire 'parshia', i.e. from 3:1 to 4:17 -
highlighting its progression of topics:</font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>I. INTRODUCTION<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> A. 3:1‑3
Moshe notices the 'burning bush'</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> B. 3:4‑6
God identifies Himself to Moshe</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>II. THE MISSION<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> A. 3:7‑8 God
heard their cry, therefore He is coming:</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:51.0pt;text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'>To redeem them, and bring them to
Israel:</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> B. 3:9-10 Moshe
is charged to go to Pharaoh </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:68.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt'>And take Bnei Yisrael out of Egypt-</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>III. QUESTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS <o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:34.0pt;text-indent:17.0pt'><b><font
size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-weight:bold'>(re: how to
accomplish this mission)<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> A. 3:11‑12 How
can I to go to Pharaoh, & take them out </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> B. 3:13‑22 What
precisely do I tell Bnei Yisrael & Pharaoh</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> C. 4:
1‑ 9 Why (and how) should they believe me</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> D. 4:10‑17 How
can I, specifically, be Your spokesman </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Let's
explain:</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> First,
God identifies Himself to Moshe Rabeinu (I) and then explains to him the
mission and its purpose (II). </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> At
the <b><span style='font-weight:bold'>center </span></b>of this outline lies
God's charge to Moshe that he take Bnei Yisrael out of Egypt (II-B). </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Finally,
Moshe responds to this assignment by asking several questions regarding how he
is to accomplish his mission (III). </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>GOD'S MESSAGE AT THE SNEH<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> What
was the purpose of the "hitgalut" at the burning bush? As we will
discuss in our shiur on Parshat Shmot, it did much more than just supply Moshe
Rabeinu with some information. Rather, God will give Moshe a very complex
mission, while explaining its goals and purpose.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> In
our shiurim on Parshat Shmot and Va'eyra, we explain what this mission is all
about, noting that Moshe actually receives a DOUBLE mission.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Afterward,
we will see how the next set of parshiot (chapters 6->17) will describe how
Moshe actually completes this mission.</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> Till
then, </span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> shabbat
shalom,</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> menachem</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
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