📘 Parsha Insights – Rashi Commentary Q&A on Rishon
- Why didn’t G-d lead the Israelites through the land of the Philistines?
Answer:
Rashi explains that although it was the shortest route, G-d avoided it because it was too close to Egypt. If the Israelites saw war (like with Amalek or Canaanites), they might regret leaving and return to Egypt.
- What does “וַיַּסֵּב” mean in verse 18?
Answer:
It means “He led them around,” i.e., G-d diverted them from the straight route to a circuitous one toward the Sea of Reeds.
- What does “יַם־סוּף” mean?
Answer:
It refers to the Sea of Reeds, a marshy area where reeds grow, as in “she placed it among the rushes (בַּסּוּף)” (Exodus 2:3).
- What does “וַחֲמֻשִׁים” mean?
Answer:
Rashi gives two explanations:
- Armed: They left Egypt equipped with weapons for the desert journey.
- One out of five: Only one-fifth of the Israelites left Egypt; four-fifths died during the plague of darkness.
- Why did Moses take Joseph’s bones?
Answer:
Joseph made his brothers swear that when G-d redeemed them, they would take his bones out of Egypt. He didn’t ask his children because the Egyptians wouldn’t allow them to do so immediately.
- Why was the place called Pi HaChirot?
Answer:
It was originally Pitom, but now called Pi HaChirot because there the Israelites became free people (בְּנֵי חוֹרִין).
- Why did G-d leave Ba’al Tzefon standing?
Answer:
It was the only Egyptian idol left, so the Egyptians would think it was powerful and be misled, fulfilling “He lets nations err and destroys them” (Job 12:23).
- What does “נְבֻכִים הֵם” mean in 14:3?
Answer:
It means “confined” or “trapped,” as if locked in the desert without knowing how to escape.
- Why does G-d say, “I will be glorified through Pharaoh”?
Answer:
When G-d punishes the wicked, His Name is exalted. Rashi cites similar verses about G-d’s glory being revealed through judgment.
- How did Pharaoh persuade his people to join him?
Answer:
He promised to lead them personally into battle and share the spoils equally, unlike other kings who take the best for themselves.
