Thinking Torah Blog

Now when Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although it was nearer; for God said, "The people may have a change of heart when they see war, and return to Egypt." - Exodus 13:17

TORAH, Exodus 13:17−17:16

SUMMARY

• The Children of Israel escape across the Sea of Reeds from Pharaoh and his army, who drown when God drives back the sea. (13:17-14:31)

• Moses and the Israelites sing a song praising Adonai. (15:1-21)

• In the wilderness, God provides the grumbling Israelites with quails and manna. God instructs the Israelites to gather and prepare on the sixth day food needed for Shabbat. (15:22-16:36)

• The people complain about the lack of water. Moses hits a rock with his rod and brings forth water. (17:1-7)

• Israel defeats Amalek, Israel's eternal enemy. God vows to blot out the memory of Amalek from the world. (17:8-16)