In this week's parasha, parashat Beshalach, we read how G-d took the Israelites out of Egypt. Moshe split the sea in two which is an event famously known as the Kriat Yam Suf, ‘splitting of the Red Sea’. The Jews then started forty years of traveling through the desert - but they were not alone. The Israelites were told by G-d that they would be escorted by two pillars: one of them was “Amud Heanan” - a pillar of a cloud - to guide them during the day; and the other - a pillar of fire - “Amud Ha’esh”, to guide them at night. These pillars guided them on their journey to the Holy Land of Israel, acting as signposts. Why did G-d choose pillars to guide them? And how can we interpret this in our modern times?

Ra’av Avraham Kook, the first Chief Rabbi of Israel, sought to find an answer to these same questions a long time ago. While looking at specific words used in the Torah scroll he noticed that the cloud covered and blocked the desert sun providing shade during the hot days whilst the pillar of fire acted as a source of light against the dark and cold desert night. In this way, both pillars were able to guide the Israelites through the desert and give the Israelites hope for a better future.

In modern times, we often find ourselves in difficult or confusing situations. Sometimes we are so caught up in what we are experiencing that we continue moving in the same direction without stopping to think. But the message of the pillars reminds us that true guidance often comes from contrast—from stepping back and asking ourselves whether our current path truly leads to where we want to go.

Like the Israelites in the desert, we need moments of cloud and moments of fire, times when we soften, reflect, and protect ourselves, and times when we bring light, courage, and clarity into darkness. 

When we are able to challenge our assumptions and look at our situation from a different angle, we give ourselves the chance to move forward with purpose and confidence.

Shabbat Shalom!

Written by Noam, Grade 10