In a way, one can almost feel sorry for Pharaoh. As we read about the final three plagues, he comes across as a tragic hero who has lost everything; like Oedipus or King Lear. When the story began, he was the omnipotent ruler of a mighty, prosperous nation, able and willing to enslave an entire people. Little by little, G-d’s plagues have worn him down. The monarch who had ridiculed G-d, negotiated in bad faith with Moses and Aaron (all right, there was someone hardening his heart), insisted on keeping hostages of people or property if Israel went to pray in the desert, now stands alone. First his magicians deserted him, then his court and advisors told him that they’d had enough and begged him to let Israel go. By the time the final plague rolls around, not only has his entire nation abandoned him, but they have switched sides, looking favorably upon the former slaves, and willingly giving them valuable going away gifts. Rashi suggests that during the plague of darkness, Israel took the opportunity to check out the Egyptian’s homes to see what they should ask for when they left. Other commentators say that when Egypt realized that Israel had been in their homes under cover of darkness but had taken nothing, they began to view the nation with kindness. Now, fearful of the enormity of the Death of the Firstborn, according to Mechilta, when Israel would ask for a particular item, an Egyptian would give him a gift of an extra one…as long as they left and took the plague with them.
So now, Pharoah, alone and abandoned, runs through the darkened streets of Egypt trying to find Moses and Aaron, not only to grant them permission to leave, but also asking for their blessing. Having fallen as low as he possibly could, he doesn’t realize that he is the only firstborn who will be spared—so he can learn his lesson. He’s terrified as to his potential fate. He also doesn’t realize that in next week’s parsha, at the Reed Sea, his final act of arrogance will lead to his complete downfall.
The timeless lesson taught here, in countless works of classical literature, and sadly in events both historical and contemporary, is that no one--not even the most powerful leader, authority, or public figure—is free to rule without a mandate from G-d, and the consent and support of those they are charged with serving. To do so will result in their world shrinking around them like Pharaoh’s; until they are the only ones left suffering in it, leaving behind all those who were hurt by arrogance, hunger for power, and selfishness. Pharaoh’s long downfall began with xenophobia, prejudice, and blind personal ambition. Too many people in positions of power today worship those deities as well. Let us pray that they (and we) can find inspiration in G-d, not in the gods they make, so we can all live in peace in a world without the plagues we can create so easily.
Shabbat ShalomRabbi/Hazzan David B. Sislen
So now, Pharoah, alone and abandoned, runs through the darkened streets of Egypt trying to find Moses and Aaron, not only to grant them permission to leave, but also asking for their blessing. Having fallen as low as he possibly could, he doesn’t realize that he is the only firstborn who will be spared—so he can learn his lesson. He’s terrified as to his potential fate. He also doesn’t realize that in next week’s parsha, at the Reed Sea, his final act of arrogance will lead to his complete downfall.
The timeless lesson taught here, in countless works of classical literature, and sadly in events both historical and contemporary, is that no one--not even the most powerful leader, authority, or public figure—is free to rule without a mandate from G-d, and the consent and support of those they are charged with serving. To do so will result in their world shrinking around them like Pharaoh’s; until they are the only ones left suffering in it, leaving behind all those who were hurt by arrogance, hunger for power, and selfishness. Pharaoh’s long downfall began with xenophobia, prejudice, and blind personal ambition. Too many people in positions of power today worship those deities as well. Let us pray that they (and we) can find inspiration in G-d, not in the gods they make, so we can all live in peace in a world without the plagues we can create so easily.
Shabbat ShalomRabbi/Hazzan David B. Sislen
