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Why does the Torah (תורה) seem to describe two separate exoduses from Egypt? The shiur distinguishes between pidyon (removing external oppression) and geulah (returning to one's true source). Parshas Bo represents pidyon from slavery, while Parshas Beshalach represents geulah - Hashem (ה׳) taking Klal Yisrael as His special army with cosmic responsibilities.
This shiur presents a comprehensive analysis of the dual nature of the Exodus from Egypt, addressing multiple textual difficulties through the lens of two distinct types of redemption. The Rabbi begins by examining several perplexing questions: Why does the Torah (תורה) appear to describe two separate exoduses - one in Parshas Bo and another in Parshas Beshalach? Why are mitzvos commemorating the Exodus mentioned before the Exodus is complete? Why does the Midrash connect all of Moshe's activities with the word 'oz'? The core thesis distinguishes between pidyon and geulah. Pidyon involves removing external oppression - taking away the source of danger or ownership over something. Geulah, however, means returning something to its original source or owner. The Rabbi explains that Klal Yisrael had two separate covenants guaranteeing their arrival in Eretz Yisrael: Bris Bein HaBesarim promised them the land as a national homeland after 400 years, while Bris Milah added the dimension of 'v'hayisi lachem l'Elokim' - a unique spiritual relationship with Hashem (ה׳) possible only in Eretz Yisrael.
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Parshas Bo and Parshas Beshalach
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