Children of Israel – Religious Identity in Egypt

Points of Dispute

These are some of the central points of dispute (נקודות המחלוקת) between the various exegetes:

  • Idolatry in Yechezkel's prophecy
    • Before the slavery and its cause – Radak, Sforno.
    • During the slavery until Moshe came –
    • Persisted even after Moshe came – Mekhilta DeRabbi Yishmael.
  • Circumcision
    • Performed in Egypt – Seder Eliyahu Rabbah 21–22, Lekach Tov Shemot 6:6, R. Chasdai Crescas.
    • Ceased because of Paroh's decree – Pirkei DeRabbi Eliezer 28.
    • Ceased in attempt to assimilate – Tanchuma Shemot, Shemot Rabbah.
    • Did not perform until entry into Israel –
  • Causes of the slavery
    • Idolatry – Radak, Sforno.
    • Purify through tribulations – R. Chasdai Crescas.
  • Why did Hashem redeem the nation?
    • They were worthy – Seder Eliyahu Rabbah, R. Chasdai Crescas
    • Because they repented –
    • Despite their evil ways –
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