Parashat Vaera/ParashahSummary

Parashat Vaera – Summary

Introduction

• After Moshe's disappointing failure at the end of Parashat Shemot, Parashat Vaera opens with Hashem renewing Moshe's dual mandate to both prepare the Israelites for the Exodus and to instruct Paroh to release them.
• Moshe and Aharon fulfill Hashem's command, but Paroh refuses to listen, just as Hashem predicted.
• Paroh's refusal unleashes the process of the Plagues. These are designed to display Hashem's power to Paroh and the Egyptians as well as the Israelites.
• The Parashah concludes with the Plague of Hail and with Paroh again hardening his heart and refusing to let the people go.