Beshalach- The Song of Redemption: Lessons from Shirat Hayam and Shirat Devorah

This week, Parashat Beshalach, marks a special Shabbos – Shabbos Shira, commemorating the miraculous Shirat Hayam (Song of the Sea) and the Haftarah's Shirat Devorah (Song of Devorah). As we continue the weeks of Shevavim, a time for increasing sanctity and drawing closer to Hashem, let these words be an Aliyah for the Neshamah of Yehudah ben Moishe, who passed away many years ago without children, and Yehudah ben Rab Yitzchak.

The Essence of Shirah

What makes a "Shirah" – a song of praise to Hashem – so unique and cherished by the Almighty?

• Gratitude in Retrospection: A Shirah allows us to acknowledge the challenges and trials we've faced, followed by profound thanks for the miracles witnessed. It’s about understanding that even difficult times can ultimately lead to a greater good, a realization often only clear in hindsight.

  • Moshe Rabbeinu’s initial despair at Pharaoh's increased cruelty transformed into a song of praise after the splitting of the sea, recognizing Hashem's plan to shorten the exile.

  • This teaches us that even in our current struggles, a future clarity will bring forth a song of praise when Moshiach comes.

• A-Z: The Ultimate Power: The word "Az" (then), starting Shirat Hayam, symbolizes "Aleph Zayin," representing the supreme, singular power of Hashem over all of nature. The splitting of the sea was not just a localized miracle but a transformation of all waters, demonstrating Hashem's absolute dominion.

• Spontaneous Expression: Rashi highlights that "Az Yashir" (then he will sing) suggests a future tense, alluding to the resurrection of the dead who will also sing this song. More profoundly, it signifies Moshe Rabbeinu's immediate, unhesitating surge of emotional desire to praise Hashem. We learn to act on our inspiration and express our gratitude promptly.

Miracles and Forgiveness

Witnessing a miracle and offering a song of praise leads to the forgiveness of sins.

• Leaving the "Yam Suf" of Sin: "Vayasa Moshe miyam Suf" – Moshe led the Jewish nation away from the Sea of Reeds. Chazal interpret this as taking them away from their sin of rebellion and skepticism.

• Seeing the Truth: When the Egyptians' bodies were clearly seen dead on the shore, the Jewish people's faith was strengthened, leading to forgiveness for their doubts.

Emunah and Rachamim

The profound faith acquired at the sea was a testament to Hashem's love and mercy.

• Vayaminu Bashem: They believed in "Hashem," the name associated with Rachamim (mercy), not "Elokim" (justice). This was because Hashem not only saved them but did so with abundant love and countless miracles beyond just splitting the sea (dry ground, glass-like water partitions, fresh water, appearing fruits).

• Direct Revelation: At that moment, the heavens opened, and even the simplest of servants saw the "Merkabah," the Divine glory, a unique historical revelation.

Miriam's Unique Shirah

Miriam's decision to lead the women in their own song of praise highlights individual expressions of gratitude.

• Women's Enduring Faith: Miriam emphasized that while men witnessed the miracle, women held a deeper connection due to their unwavering faith throughout the enslavement, their willingness to bring children into the world, and their constant encouragement of their husbands.

• Diverse Expressions: Each person has a unique way of thanking Hashem; Miriam and the women expressed their love through song, dance, and tambourines, showcasing their profound joy and connection.

The 18 Blessings of Shemoneh Esrei

The 18 verses of Shirat Hayam are the foundation for the 18 blessings of our daily Shemoneh Esrei prayer, a constant remembrance of this ultimate song of praise. The 19th blessing, added later against traitors, mirrors the 19th verse of the Shira, "Ki Vah Sus Paroh."

Shirat Devorah: Strength in Humility and Torah

The Haftarah presents Shirat Devorah, another significant song of praise.

• Devorah: Prophetess and Judge: Devorah was a unique leader – a prophetess and a judge who led Israel in political and legal matters, even leading them to war.

• Empowering Through Torah: Devorah's greatness was her ability to elevate her simple husband, Barak, by encouraging him to take thick wicks ("Lapidot") to the Mishkan for lighting the Menorah. This symbolized that Torah brings light into the world, and constant connection to Torah makes one great.

• Spiritual Breaches: Devorah's song begins by noting "breaches" that occurred before the war with Sisera. These were not geographical but spiritual breaches, where people abandoned Torah. When they returned to Torah, their enemies lost power.

• Humility and Torah: Devorah highlights that just as Hashem chose humble Mount Sinai for the Torah's revelation, our strength comes from connecting to Torah, even when we feel weak and small. The victory against Sisera, despite overwhelming odds, was due to the renewed realization that their power came solely from Torah.

Miracles vs. Routine: The Path to Growth

While miracles strengthen our Emunah, true growth comes through daily routine and Bitachon (trust).

• Miracles as Triggers, Not Transformers: Miracles are powerful, but they don't necessarily transform character or middot (traits). The Rambam notes that even after seeing great miracles in Mitzrayim, people weren't fundamentally changed.

• Daily Practice: After the miraculous crossing of the sea, the Jewish people complained about bitter waters and lack of food. Hashem's provision of Manna, day after day, was to teach them Bitachon – not just believing in Hashem's existence, but trusting He will provide for all their needs.

• Torah as Sustenance: Just as the Manna prepared them for receiving the Torah, daily reliance on Hashem through consistent effort, learning Torah, and trusting in His providence fosters true growth.

Tu BiShvat: Roots and Growth

The upcoming Tu BiShvat, celebrated in winter's grip, offers a powerful metaphor for our spiritual journey:

• Life Underneath: Even when seemingly barren, the roots of a tree remain alive and active underground, nurturing future growth.

• Constant Care: Just as a tree needs constant care to produce fruit, we, too, must continuously nurture our connection to our roots (legacy and tradition) and apply ourselves to Torah ("Mayim" often symbolizes Torah) to grow and bear spiritual fruit.

May we all merit to sing a song of praise this week, and may it be a song of redemption – a song of Geulah Shleimah – very, very soon. Have a wonderful Shabbos!