Exodus 11

Hook

Remember those campfire singalongs at Camp Ramah? The ones where we’d huddle together, the embers glowing like miniature suns, and sing with all our might? There’s one song, a simple melody that always gets us going: "V’hi’she’am’deinu l’avoteynu…” (And it is this that has sustained our ancestors, and it sustains us). We sing it every night before lights out, a gentle reminder of where we come from and what connects us. It’s about legacy, about enduring stories, about a thread that weaves through generations.

Well, this week in Torah, we’re at a moment that feels like the crescendo of a massive, epic campfire song. We’re at Exodus chapter 11, and the music is about to swell into a powerful, final chord. The Israelites have endured nine plagues, nine rounds of God’s escalating power against Pharaoh and Egypt. Nine times the Egyptians have suffered, and nine times Pharaoh’s heart has been like a stubborn, unyielding rock. But now, Moses is standing before Pharaoh, and God’s message is clear: one more plague. One more, and then, then they’ll be free. It’s a moment charged with anticipation, like the pause just before the biggest drum solo. The air is thick with what’s about to happen, the echoes of the past nine plagues still ringing, and the promise of a future, a freedom, that’s finally within reach. This isn’t just history; it’s a story that’s still singing to us, urging us to listen and to learn how to carry its melody into our own lives, even now, long after the campfire has died down and we’re back home.

Context

This week’s Torah portion, Exodus 11, is a pivotal moment. It’s the calm before the storm, the quiet pause before the grand finale of the plagues. Let’s set the scene:

The Setting Sun of Egypt

• The Final Countdown: We’re at the very precipice of the Exodus. God tells Moses that after one more plague, Pharaoh will not only let the Israelites go, but he’ll practically push them out the door! It’s like the sun setting on Egypt’s reign of oppression, casting long shadows as the Israelites prepare for their departure.
• A Wilderness Wisdom Metaphor: Imagine you’re on a long hike, and you’ve been carrying a heavy pack for days. You can see the summit, it’s so close! But there’s one last, steep climb. You know it’s going to be tough, but you also know that on the other side is the breathtaking view, the rest, the arrival. This is that last, challenging ascent before the glorious vista of freedom.
• Borrowing for the Journey: God instructs Moses to tell the Israelites to “borrow” silver and gold from their Egyptian neighbors. This isn’t just about material wealth; it’s a symbolic act, a testament to the favor God has instilled in the Egyptians towards the Israelites. It’s a sign that even in the midst of divine judgment, there’s a recognition of the Israelites’ worth and a preparation for their future.

Text Snapshot

"And the LORD said to Moses, 'Yet one more plague I will bring upon Pharaoh and upon Egypt; after that he shall let you go from here; indeed, when he lets you go, he will drive you out of here one and all. Tell the people to borrow, each man from his neighbor and each woman from hers, objects of silver and gold.' Yahweh disposed the Egyptians favorably toward the people. Moreover, Moses himself was much esteemed in the land of Egypt, among Pharaoh’s courtiers and among the people."

Close Reading

This week's portion, Exodus 11, is brimming with theological depth and practical implications for our lives. While it might seem like a simple narrative of impending doom for Egypt and liberation for Israel, there are layers of meaning that resonate deeply, especially when we consider how these ancient events can inform our modern family dynamics and personal growth. The commentators, with their keen insights, help us unpack these layers.

Insight 1: Divine Favor and "Borrowing" for Our Future

Let's dive into that fascinating instruction: "Tell the people to borrow, each man from his neighbor and each woman from hers, objects of silver and gold.” (Exodus 11:2). This isn't just about acquiring riches; it’s a profound statement about God’s orchestration and the Israelites’ preparation.

• The "Favor" of the Egyptians: The verse immediately following, "Yahweh disposed the Egyptians favorably toward the people," is crucial. It tells us that this isn't a theft or a forceful taking. God arranged for the Egyptians to be willing to give. This is a powerful reminder that even in seemingly adversarial situations, God can work behind the scenes to create opportunities and foster goodwill. It's not about manipulation, but about a divine nudging of hearts. The Kli Yakar points out that the Egyptians’ willingness to give is a response to God’s influence: "G-d disposed the Egyptians favorably toward the people." This implies a supernatural influence, a divine persuasion that softens hearts and opens hands.

• The Significance of "Borrowing": The word "borrow" ( sha’al) is key. It implies an intention to return, or at least a temporary loan. However, in the context of the Exodus, it’s understood that this "borrowing" is actually a form of restitution, a return of wages owed for generations of forced labor. The Or HaChaim highlights this, stating that God had already informed Moses in Midian that Pharaoh would not let the Israelites go even after a strong hand was applied. The "borrowing" is a fulfillment of God's prior promise (Exodus 3:22) that the Israelites would leave Egypt with riches. It’s a pre-ordained outcome, orchestrated by God. This isn’t about opportunistic gain; it’s about reclaiming what was rightfully theirs, albeit through a seemingly paradoxical method.

• Translating to Home and Family: How can we apply this to our families?

  • Cultivating Generosity: We can learn to cultivate a spirit of generosity within our homes. This doesn’t mean accumulating material wealth, but fostering an environment where family members are willing to "lend" their time, their energy, their listening ears, and their emotional support to one another. When a child is struggling with homework, a parent might "lend" their patience. When a spouse is overwhelmed, the other might "lend" their help with chores. This willingness to give, to "borrow" from our resources for the benefit of another, is what builds strong family bonds.
  • Recognizing Divine Providence in Opportunity: We can also train ourselves to see God’s hand in the opportunities that arise. Sometimes, blessings come in unexpected ways. Perhaps a friend offers help when we're in a bind, or a new resource becomes available at just the right time. Instead of dismissing these as mere coincidences, we can pause and consider if God has, in a sense, "disposed favorably" towards us, creating an opening for progress or relief. This perspective can foster gratitude and a deeper trust in God's plan, even when we don't fully understand it. It teaches us to be open to receiving, not just materially, but also emotionally and spiritually, from those around us, and to recognize that this flow is often divinely guided.

Insight 2: The Inevitability of Divine Justice and the Power of Consequences

The description of the tenth plague, the death of the firstborn, is stark and terrifying. "And there shall be a loud cry in all the land of Egypt, such as has never been or will ever be again; but not a dog shall snarl at any of the Israelites, at human or beast—in order that you may know that Yahweh makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel." (Exodus 11:6-7). This plague is presented as the ultimate consequence of Pharaoh's obstinacy.

• The Distinction Between Israel and Egypt: The phrase "in order that you may know that Yahweh makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel" is incredibly significant. It emphasizes God's power to protect those who are His and to judge those who reject Him. The commentators highlight this. Sforno states, "This time he will expel all of you from this entire country. This is the attribute of G’d’s justice at work." He connects this to the concept of retribution matching the nature of the sin. Pharaoh’s refusal to let the Israelites go, his obstinacy, will ultimately lead to a more forceful and complete expulsion. The very thing he tried to prevent will happen to him in a far more devastating way.

• The Escalation of Consequences: The text also hints at the escalating nature of Pharaoh’s actions and the subsequent consequences. Sforno elaborates on this, stating, "When a person obstinately insists on not performing the expressed will of his Creator, (owner) he will ultimately have to do what he tried to avoid doing under infinitely worse circumstances." This is a universal principle. Pharaoh’s initial refusal to let the Israelites go, which started with a relatively minor inconvenience (a few days' journey into the wilderness), escalated with each plague, and the consequences became increasingly severe. He was given multiple opportunities to change course, but his hardened heart led him down a path of increasing destruction. The Kli Yakar also notes the specific wording "כשלחו כלה גרש יגרש אתכם" (when he lets you go, he will drive you out of here one and all). He explains that the initial "expulsions" were partial (Moses and Aaron, or the people leaving but not being allowed to travel far), but this final expulsion will be absolute and complete. The word kalah (all) emphasizes the totality of the expulsion, a direct consequence of Pharaoh's prolonged resistance.

• Translating to Home and Family: This concept of escalating consequences and the clear distinction between right and wrong actions has profound implications for how we raise our children and interact within our families:

  • Setting Clear Boundaries and Consequences: Just as God set clear boundaries and consequences for Pharaoh's actions, we need to establish clear expectations and consequences for our children's behavior. This isn't about punishment for punishment's sake, but about helping them understand that actions have repercussions. When a child consistently breaks a rule, the consequences should naturally escalate, reflecting the seriousness of their choices. This teaches them responsibility and the importance of respecting boundaries. It helps them internalize the idea that their choices matter and have an impact.
  • Teaching the Difference Between Right and Wrong: The distinction God makes between Israel and Egypt is a powerful lesson in morality. We have a responsibility to teach our children the difference between right and wrong, not just in terms of external rules, but in terms of character and ethical conduct. We need to model integrity, kindness, and honesty, and to help our children understand why these values are important, not just for avoiding punishment, but for building a good life and contributing positively to the world. This distinction isn't always black and white, but by discussing motivations, impacts, and principles, we can guide them towards making righteous choices. The very idea that God makes a distinction can help children understand that there are ethical imperatives that transcend personal preference or convenience.

Micro-Ritual

This week, let’s create a simple ritual to mark the transition from the intensity of the plagues to the anticipation of freedom, and to bring the concept of "borrowing" into our homes in a meaningful way. This can be done on Friday night, as we welcome Shabbat, or as a mini-Havdalah-like ritual at another point during the week.

The "Blessing of the Borrowed Light"

This ritual is about acknowledging the transition, the anticipation of something new, and the concept of receiving and giving.

What you'll need:

• A Candle: Preferably a braided candle, or two separate candles that you will hold together. This represents the dual nature of the moment – the darkness of the plagues receding and the light of freedom emerging.
• A Small Dish or Bowl: This will represent the "borrowed" treasures.
• Small Objects: A few shiny objects – coins, pebbles, even small pieces of foil. These represent the silver and gold the Israelites "borrowed."
• A Piece of Fruit or a Sweet Treat: To represent the sweetness of freedom and the fruits of our labor.

The Ritual:

1. Gather Together: Bring your family together around a table. Light the candle(s).
2. The Story of Borrowing (Briefly): You can briefly retell the story of God instructing the Israelites to "borrow" from the Egyptians. Emphasize that it was a divinely orchestrated act, a preparation for their journey. You can say something like: "Tonight, we're thinking about the moment just before the final plague. God told the Israelites to ask their neighbors for silver and gold, not to steal, but because God had put favor in the Egyptians' hearts. It was like a loan, a preparation for the big journey ahead."
3. The "Borrowed" Treasures: Hold up the small objects in the dish. Say: "Just as the Israelites were preparing for their journey by receiving these 'borrowed' treasures, we too can prepare for our own journeys, our own challenges, and our own moments of freedom by being open to receiving blessings and support from those around us."
4. The Candle's Light: Hold the candle(s) and say: "This light represents the flickering hope of freedom that was growing in Egypt, and the promise of a new beginning. It also represents the knowledge that even in difficult times, God's light can guide us and distinguish us."
5. The Blessing of Generosity and Anticipation:
   • For each person: Have each person take one of the shiny objects from the dish. As they hold it, they can say: "I receive this 'borrowed' light, and I promise to be generous with my own light (my time, my kindness, my help) for my family and for others."
   • As a group: One person can then say: "We give thanks for the 'borrowed' light of freedom, for the wisdom to prepare, and for the strength to move forward. May we always be ready to receive and to give, knowing that God's favor can guide our path."
6. The Sweetness of Freedom: Finally, share the piece of fruit or sweet treat. As you eat, say: "May the sweetness of freedom, and the fruits of our efforts, always be a reminder of God's guiding hand and our journey towards liberation."

Why this works:

• Experiential Learning: It makes the abstract concept of "borrowing" tangible and relatable.
• Family Connection: It creates a shared moment of reflection and strengthens family bonds through a common activity and shared meaning.
• Spiritual Resonance: It connects the Torah story to our daily lives, reminding us of God's providence and the importance of generosity and preparation.
• Flexibility: It can be adapted to fit the age and needs of your family. Younger children can focus on the shiny objects and the idea of sharing, while older ones can engage more deeply with the theological concepts. The "borrowed light" can be a metaphor for anything – advice, help, a listening ear – that we receive from others.

This ritual is about embracing the idea that preparation for freedom and growth often involves a willingness to receive, to be supported, and to be part of a larger plan, just as the Israelites were.

Chevruta Mini

Let’s explore this week’s text a bit further, like two friends sharing insights around a campfire.

Question 1: The Nature of Pharaoh's "Stiffened Heart"

The Torah repeatedly states that God "stiffened the heart of Pharaoh" (Exodus 11:10). This raises a profound question: if God is hardening Pharaoh's heart, how can Pharaoh be held responsible for his actions? Is Pharaoh a puppet, or does he have genuine free will?

• Think About It: Consider the idea of a sculptor and clay. The sculptor has the power to shape the clay, but the clay itself has a nature. Perhaps God’s hardening of Pharaoh’s heart wasn't about creating wickedness, but about amplifying and solidifying the wickedness that was already present within Pharaoh. Or, perhaps it’s about a divine allowance, a granting of freedom to Pharaoh to fully embody his rebellion, thereby making the eventual judgment more absolute and clear. How does this concept of God's intervention, and the individual's responsibility, play out in your own life or in how you understand justice?

Question 2: The "Borrowing" as a Divine Command

The instruction for the Israelites to "borrow" silver and gold (Exodus 11:2) is quite unusual. If it was a form of restitution for years of slavery, why frame it as "borrowing"? What does this linguistic choice teach us about how God operates, and how we should approach receiving help or resources from others, even when we feel entitled to them?

• Think About It: Could the wording be a way to prevent the Israelites from acting out of anger or a sense of entitlement? By framing it as "borrowing," it maintains a semblance of civility, even amidst divine judgment. It also ensures that the Egyptians are willing participants, as the text states God disposed them favorably. This suggests that even when we are in a position of power or entitlement, a humble and respectful approach to receiving what is rightfully ours (or what is being given to us) can be crucial. How does this idea of humble reception contrast with demanding what you believe you deserve?

Takeaway

This week, as we journey through Exodus chapter 11, we’re reminded that freedom isn’t just an absence of oppression; it’s a preparation, a transition, and a profound act of divine orchestration. The "borrowing" of silver and gold isn't just about material wealth; it’s about God’s power to influence hearts and prepare us for the journey ahead. It teaches us that even in the face of adversity, blessings can be found, and preparation can be divinely guided.

Furthermore, the stark contrast between the fate of Egypt and the protection of Israel underscores the reality of divine justice and the inevitable consequences of our choices. Pharaoh's hardened heart, amplified by divine decree, serves as a powerful, albeit somber, reminder that obstinacy leads to greater hardship.

So, let's carry this into our lives. Let's be open to the "borrowed" blessings God places in our path, and let's be generous with our own gifts. And let's strive to live with integrity, recognizing the distinction between right and wrong, and understanding that our choices ripple outwards, shaping our own futures and the futures of those around us. May we always find the light of freedom, and may we always be prepared to step into it with gratitude and humility.

Singable Line Suggestion:

(To the tune of "V'hi'she'am'deinu")

“V’hi’she’am’deinu… l’cheirutenu, v’hi’she’am’deinu… l’cheirutenu!”

(And it is this that has sustained us for our freedom, and it has sustained us for our freedom!)