Dvar Torah

When the people attempted to collect manna on Shabbos, Hashem rebuked them. Moshe was also rebuked for not teaching about Shabbos immediately, waiting instead until the people asked why a double portion fell on Friday.

At first glance, the rebuke seems excessive: “Why do you refuse to keep all My laws?” Why refer to all the laws when the issue was Shabbos?

The Midrash explains that keeping Shabbos serves as our testimony that Hashem created the world and rules over everything. By observing Shabbos each week, we affirm our belief in Hashem’s authority. Without that foundation, the rest of the Torah cannot stand.

Thank you, and have an over-the-TOP Shabbos.

–Rabbi Bodkins

Parsha Outline

1st Aliya
Bnei Yisroel leave Mitzrayim. Although the direct route to Eretz Yisroel followed the Mediterranean coast, it was occupied by the Philistines, and the nation was not ready for war. Hashem led them toward the Sea of Reeds. Pharaoh believed the Jews were lost and pursued them into the desert.

2nd Aliya
The Egyptians caught up to Bnei Yisroel at the edge of the sea. The sound and sight of 600 charging chariots filled the nation with fear. Moshe reassured them that they needed only to trust Hashem and remain still as Hashem would fight for them.

3rd Aliya
Moshe was instructed to stretch his staff over the sea. A cloud separated the Jews from the Egyptians, and a strong east wind blew through the night. The sea split, and Bnei Yisroel walked between towering walls of water. The Egyptians followed them into the sea.

4th Aliya
Moshe stretched his arm again, and the waters returned, drowning the Egyptian army. The people witnessed Hashem’s justice and believed in Him and in Moshe as His servant. Moshe and Miriam led the nation in song. The incident of the bitter waters at Marah follows.

5th Aliya
The people struggled with concerns for food and water. Hashem provided quail and manna as signs of His care and love.

6th Aliya
Instructions were given for collecting the manna, including the introduction of Shabbos. A portion of manna was preserved for future generations.

7th Aliya
At Rephidim, the people again lacked water. Hashem instructed Moshe to strike the rock, bringing forth water. The parsha concludes with Amalek’s unprovoked attack. Yehoshua led the battle while Moshe, Aharon, and Chur stood with Moshe’s hands raised. Hashem commanded us to remember and erase Amalek’s evil.

Top News

As part of our ongoing theme of gratitude, we are preparing for our Bracha Parties taking place next week. These gatherings give our residents the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and recognize the blessings in their lives through making brachos with meaning and intention.

For many of our residents, this will be the first time they have ever made a bracha. It is a powerful and emotional experience, one that brings joy, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose. These moments remind them that they are seen, valued, and deeply cared for.

Through these Bracha Parties, TOP helps create meaningful spiritual experiences that leave a lasting impact, turning simple moments into ones filled with appreciation and growth.