This week’s Parashat Bo shares profound insights into God’s power to judge and redeem. These themes are especially moving in light of current events, as we fervently hope for divine intervention to bring freedom to the Israeli hostages who are held in Gaza. The narrative of the Exodus, where God’s mighty hand brought His people out of Egypt, serves as both a historical account of deliverance and a timeless reminder of faith and hope in the face of overwhelming challenges.  

In this portion, we witness the final three plagues—locusts, darkness, and the death of the firstborn—that ultimately compelled Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Each act was not random but served a divine purpose:  

"…and so that you may tell your children and grandchildren how I dealt harshly with the Egyptians and how I performed my signs among them, and that you may know that I am the LORD."
Exodus 10:2  

This moment was about more than the immediate freedom of the Israelites—it was a testimony for generations, affirming that God alone is sovereign.  

In the Haftarah from Jeremiah, we find a different scene of judgment upon Egypt, this time through the invasion of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon:  

This is the message which the LORD spoke to Jeremiah the prophet about the coming of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon to strike the land of Egypt.
Jeremiah 46:13  

The prophecy warns of Egypt's downfall and serves as a reminder that earthly powers—be they kings or gods—cannot stand against the will of the Creator. Trust in anything other than God will ultimately falter:  

Pharaoh king of Egypt is only a loud noise; he has missed his opportunity.
Jeremiah 46:17  

These narratives reveal that God’s judgment is certain, and it comes with a dual purpose: to humble the proud and to demonstrate His supremacy. However, God’s judgment is always tempered with grace and protection for His chosen people. In Exodus, He distinguishes between the Egyptians and the Israelites:  

But not a dog will bark at any person or animal belonging to the Israelites, so that you will know that the LORD makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel.
Exodus 11:7 

In Jeremiah, God reassures His people with comforting words, even amid the chaos of judgment:  

But as for you, Jacob my servant, do not be afraid; do not be dismayed, Israel. I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile. Jeremiah 46:27  

These verses are a powerful reminder that God’s faithfulness endures even in the darkest times.  

As we reflect on Parashat Bo, let us take heart in the knowledge that God’s purposes will prevail. Let us pass down the stories of His wonders and cling to the hope that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. May this Shabbat be a time of prayer, not only for comfort and peace but for miracles that remind the world of His power and glory. 

Shabbat Shalom,
Moran