Parashat Beshalach – Summary

Introduction

Parashat Beshalach begins the second phase of the redemption process – the severing of the Children of Israel's dependence on Egypt and the building of their faith in and reliance on God.
Roundabout Route – Following the Exodus at the end of Parashat Bo, Parashat Beshalach opens at the end of Chapter 13 with God leading Israel on a circuitous route through the wilderness.
Splitting of the Sea – Chapter 14 recounts the miracle of the splitting of Yam Suf and the salvation of the Children of Israel from the Egyptian army.
Song of the Sea – In Chapter 15, Moshe and the Children of Israel sing a song celebrating their Divine salvation. They subsequently arrive at Marah where, following their complaints, Hashem miraculously provides them with water.
The Manna – Chapter 16 describes how Hashem responds to the Children of Israel's complaint for food by raining down bread from Heaven, a miracle that would repeat itself daily throughout the forty years in the desert.
Water and Amalek – In Chapter 17, Moshe produces water for the nation by striking a rock. Then, facing their first war, the Children of Israel are led by Moshe and Yehoshua to victory over Amalek.