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Why does the Torah (תורה) emphasize that Moshe became important in Pharaoh's house? Rashi (רש"י) reveals that Moshe wasn't just a spectator witnessing Jewish suffering—Pharaoh appointed him to oversee the Jewish slaves. This position gave Moshe authority to act, not merely empathize, which explains why he went out to see his brethren and intervened when he witnessed their oppression.
This shiur explores a crucial Rashi (רש"י) in Parshas Shemos that unlocks the deeper meaning of Moshe Rabbeinu's intervention on behalf of the Jewish slaves. The pasuk states "VaYehi baYamim haHeim vaYigdal Moshe" (And it was in those days, and Moshe grew up). Rashi points out that the Torah (תורה) already stated in an earlier verse "VaYigdal haYeled" (the child grew up), so what is this second reference adding? Rashi explains that the first "VaYigdal" refers to physical growth, while the second refers to "legedulah"—becoming important or achieving a position of prominence. Specifically, Rashi states "Shiminahu Pharaoh al beiso" (Pharaoh appointed him over his house). The question arises: Why does the Torah need to inform us of Moshe's political position in Egypt? What relevance does his status among the Egyptians have to the Torah's narrative?
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Why does Moshe respond to the splitting of the sea with shirah rather than praise or thanksgiving? Rashi's use of "al libo" reveals that shirah is an emotional expression—a response of love to love. When Hashem shows personal care, the only adequate response is "I love You too," not mere gratitude or praise, and this principle applies to all relationships.
Shemos 2:11
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Why didn't Noach daven for his generation while Avrohom advocated for Sedom? Noach viewed each person as an independent island responsible only for their own teshuvah. Avrohom understood that all humanity is interconnected through shared perspective and values, making prayer for others both possible and necessary.
