Miracles & Meaning: A Pesach Reflection for Shabbat Hagadol Metzora

The Dual Nature of Miracles: Revealed and Hidden

My father, of blessed memory, often pondered a profound question about the Seder night. The Haggadah describes the tremendous miracles in Egypt: "Just as you saw tremendous miracles in Egypt when I took you out... I will also show him miracles." He would ask, "Why 'him' (third person) at the end, if it began with 'you' (second person)?" This "Lashon Nistar," or third-person grammatical form in Hebrew, holds a deeper meaning.

In Egypt, the miracles were overtly displayed, undeniable in their grandeur. Yet, as we progress through history, Hashem promises further miracles, but they will appear more subtle, almost concealed.

Pesach: Witnessing Open Miracles

Here in Eretz Israel, especially in Yerushalayim and Bnei Brak, we have recently been witnesses to what can only be described as open miracles. While some may seek strategic or defense explanations, the sheer scale of the rockets and missiles falling with minimal harm is a testament to divine protection. This past month, and even this past Shabbat, we experienced a profound sense of Hakadosh Baruch Hu's direct care for us.

The Unforgettable Miracles of This Past Month

Comparing the recent events to the Six-Day War in 1967, the current situation, with rockets falling and virtually no casualties, stands as an unparalleled open miracle. Our hearts swell with boundless gratitude for this visible protection.

The Imperative of Remembrance: Talking About Miracles

To truly appreciate these divine interventions, we are commanded to continually speak of them. On Pesach night, we are enjoined to "see ourselves as if we came out of Egypt." This isn't merely an intellectual exercise; it's a call to relive the experience, to internalize the liberation.

The Power of Storytelling: A Core Pesach Mitzvah

The Haggadah emphasizes the importance of talking, to ourselves and to our children, about the Exodus. Even the great Tannaim, like Rabbi Akiva and Rabbi Elazar Ben Azariah, in the darkest post-destruction times, spent the entire Seder night immersed in this conversation. "The night," they taught, alludes to the periods of exile (galut), reminding us to strengthen our faith even in challenging times.

The Significance of the Korban Pesach and Brit Milah

The Korban Pesach (Pesach offering) and Brit Milah (circumcision) were not merely ritual acts; they were profound expressions of self-sacrifice and commitment. Bringing the lamb, an Egyptian deity, into their homes and publicly roasting it demonstrated a radical break from idolatry and a deep devotion to Hakadosh Baruch Hu.

Individual Commitment: The Essence of Dam Milah

While the Korban Pesach was a communal act, Dam Milah symbolized an individual's personal covenant with Hashem. It signified a transition from physical slavery to spiritual servitude, a willingness to be a devoted servant of the Divine.

The White of Pesach: Purity and Preparation for Torah

The prevalent white symbolism on Pesach—white clothing, tablecloths, matzah—signifies purification from the impurity of Egypt. It represents our readiness to receive the Torah, a fusion of Hashem's infinite light (the white background) and the specific commandments (the black letters) that guide our path.

A Story of Divine Guidance and Personal Salvation

The inspiring story of Rabbi Green, guided by a seemingly chance encounter to the hotel of Yossi Weiss, beautifully illustrates Hakadosh Baruch Hu's precise plan. It underscores the profound truth that even amidst uncertainty, divine orchestration is at play, leading us to our appointed help and salvation.

Crying Out to Hashem: Vanitzak El Hashem

The Haggadah's verse, "Vanitzak el Hashem" (And we cried out to Hashem), serves as a powerful invitation to personal prayer. Many have found profound salvation by pausing at this moment to pour out their hearts and personal struggles to the Almighty, witnessing miraculous answers to their deepest needs.

Conclusion: A Pesach of Redemption and Joy

May this Pesach be a time of tremendous salvation and open miracles for each and every one of us. As we cleanse our homes and bring in the purity of Matzah and holiness, may we truly feel the uplifting presence of the Divine. May we be worthy of renewed hope and comfort for all of Am Yisrael. Have a wonderful Shabbat and a most enjoyable Yom Tov!