Va’era Essay

The opening of the Parsha is intriguingly absent of its name, deviating from the norm. In response to Moshe’s inquiry, “Lama hareota?”— questioning the hardships faced by Bnei Yisrael—HaShem’s answer lies in the initial verse, “Vayedaber Elokim el Moshe vayomer eilav ani HaShem.”

In unpacking this response, “Vayedaber” signifies a directive, while “Elokim” represents HaShem’s connection to the physical world. Despite the necessity of concealing His presence through Tzimtzum to enable free will, the essential truth remains Ani HaShem. The manifestation as Elokim in this world results in varied tenses like Elokeinu, Elokeichem, yet the shem Havaya remains unaltered.

R’ Hirsch elaborates, explaining that HaShem uniquely formed a loyal nation by bringing them into existence amid adversity. Unlike the conventional route of providing Avraham with offspring and establishing them comfortably in Eretz Canaan, HaShem rescued the Jewish nation from the brink of death, instilling resilience. This distinct creation, emerging from the depths of Egyptian oppression and ultimate impurity, empowers the Jewish people to endure, grow, and defy odds persistently.