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Why does Hashem (ה׳) sometimes tell Moshe "lech" (go), sometimes "bo" (come with me), and sometimes "hityatzev" (station yourself) before Pharaoh? The shiur develops that the forms reflect Moshe's changing role: "lech" when acting as principal with authority, "bo" when serving as Hashem's agent, and "hityatzev" when merely delivering a message. The analysis extends to the mateh (staff) itself as a symbol of authority and intimidation.
The shiur opens with a fundamental textual question: Why does Hashem (ה׳) use different verbs when sending Moshe to Pharaoh? In Parshas Vaeira, the language is "lech el Pharaoh" (go to Pharaoh), while in Parshas Bo it becomes "bo el Pharaoh" (come to Pharaoh). Additionally, there are instances where the Torah (תורה) uses "hityatzev lifnei Pharaoh" (station yourself before Pharaoh). The shiur undertakes a comprehensive analysis of every instance across both parshiyos to uncover the pattern. Rabbi Zweig establishes that "bo" literally means "come with me" - it can only be used when the speaker will accompany the listener to the destination. "Lech" means "go" - the listener proceeds independently. "Hityatzev" means to station or position oneself at a location, often with confrontational overtones. The question becomes: what determines which form Hashem uses in each situation?
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Shemos 10:1 (Parshas Bo)
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Why does Rashi describe the Mishkan as "collateral" for Jewish sins? Rabbi Zweig develops the concept that God limited His own collection rights—accepting only the Mishkan's destruction rather than the nation's annihilation. This reflects the relationship of a father who reduces his own claims to ensure his children's survival.
Why does the Torah give a detailed accounting of silver and copper but not gold in Parshas Pekudei? The three metals represent three types of givers: those who give selflessly (gold), those seeking a two-way benefit (silver), and those buying honor (copper). The Midrash's three groups suspecting or praising Moshe reveal more about themselves than about Moshe—we judge others by our own standards.
