Life is often filled with challenges that test our faith and resilience. Whether as individuals or as a nation, we face moments of uncertainty, struggle, and fear. However, throughout history, we see that God is always present, orchestrating deliverance in the most miraculous ways. The story of Israel's redemption from Egypt is a powerful reminder that no matter how dire circumstances appear, the Lord is our ultimate protector and guide.

In this week's Parashah, we read of God’s final act of redemption of His people—rescuing the children of Israel from Pharaoh and his army at the “End Sea.” As I have written before, you may wonder why I call it the “End Sea” and not the "Red Sea." Sometimes, important details get lost in translation, and I think the literal translation of the sea's name is important to our understanding of the account. In Exodus 13:18, the English translation reads:

Hence God led the people around by the way of the wilderness to the Red Sea; and the sons of Israel went up in martial array from the land of Egypt.

In Hebrew, the name for the “Red Sea” is Yam Sof, which literally means, “the End (or Final) Sea.” The name of the sea actually foretells what was to happen to Pharaoh and his army as a final act of wonder and judgment on them, as well as the final redemption of the children of Israel! Later in Exodus 14, we read of that redemption when Moses tells the people of Israel:

But Moses said to the people, 'Do not fear! Stand by and see the salvation of the LORD which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you will never see them again forever. The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent.'
Exodus 14:13–14

It is very easy to judge Israel’s fear during this situation, but try to imagine yourself in their place, where on one side you have the sea and on the other, Pharaoh and his army are quickly coming toward you. There is no doubt in my mind that we would all be afraid and struggle to trust God in the midst of that. However, Moses trusted God by keeping his eyes fixed upon the Lord and encouraged the people to do the same. As we know, against all odds, God came through for His people, and indeed that was God's final act of judgment and wonder against Egypt in Israel’s journey to the Land of Promise.

In Exodus 14:24-25 we find an interesting account that came right before the final act of God’s wonder and judgment on Egypt, and which also connects us to the scripture from the Haftarah.

But at the morning watch, the LORD looked down on the army of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and cloud, and brought the army of the Egyptians into confusion. He caused their chariot wheels to swerve, and He made them drive with difficulty; so the Egyptians each said, 'Let me flee from Israel, for the LORD is fighting for them against the Egyptians.'

In our Haftarah portion, we read of yet another incredible victory which the LORD provided for Israel, delivering them from the hands of Sisera, who was the commander of the army of Jabin, King of Canaan. As you read this amazing account from Judges 4, you will find many parallels with our story from Exodus, which I highly encourage you to read.

For example, in Judges 4:13–15 we read:

Sisera summoned all his chariots, nine hundred iron chariots, and all the people who were with him, from Harosheth-hagoyim to the river Kishon. Then Deborah said to Barak, 'Arise! For this is the day on which the LORD has handed Sisera over to you; behold, the LORD has gone out before you.' So Barak went down from Mount Tabor with ten thousand men following him. And the LORD confused (shocked) Sisera and all his chariots and all his army with the edge of the sword before Barak; and Sisera got down from his chariot and fled on foot.

Here God came through once again supernaturally, as He caused a great, confusing fright in the camp of Sisera. This ended up costing them the battle and opened the opportunity for Yael to kill Sisera, which added insult to injury, because it was a humiliation to be killed by a woman in that culture. Another interesting point to consider is that, unlike Moses who kept his eyes upon the Lord, Barak did not trust God and needed Deborah to “hold his hand” on the way to battle due to his fear of Sisera. So, Yael killing Sisera was also humiliating for Barak. The takeaway is that God will accomplish His plan through anyone who is willing!

Though the challenges Israel faces today are different from those in biblical times, one truth remains unchanged: The Lord fights for His people. Even in the darkest of moments, His presence is evident. He strengthens, protects, and delivers in ways beyond human understanding.

As Israel stands against those who seek its destruction, let us remember that the same God who parted the sea and led His people to safety is still at work today. The struggles Israel faces are not just political or military battles—they are spiritual battles as well. Yet, we trust that the Lord is our defender, and He will not forsake His people. The enemies of Israel may conspire, but they will not prevail, for God’s promises are eternal.

May we continue to stand firm in faith, pray for Israel’s protection, and trust in the Lord’s unfailing love. The same God who delivered Israel in the past will deliver her again, bringing justice, peace, and ultimate redemption.

As we reflect on the victories of the past, may we find assurance in the God who never changes. Let us remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that He is with us through every trial. May our trust in Him be unwavering, and may we walk forward with the confidence that He is leading us to ultimate redemption.

Shabbat Shalom,
Moran