Facing Pharaoh: Finding the Courage in the Face of Adversity
Liluei Nishmas Ita bas Chanoch Aharon Bistritzky
The Shalah writes that the naming of each Parsha is an intentional description by the Chazal of the Parsha's thematic message. However, this insight by the Shalah seems at odds with Parshat "Bo". The primary theme of the Parsha is one of redemption; in it, the Torah tells us of the final plagues and the beginning of the exodus of the Jewish people; the actual name of the Parsha according to the Rambam of 'Bo el Paro' - 'Come to Pharaoh,' seems to convey the opposite message.
We would not be the first to notice this misalignment; the Zohar raises a similar question: "Why the phrase 'Bo' ( 'Come') as opposed to 'Lech' (go)". The Zohar relates that Hashem commanded Moshe to confront Pharoh publicly in his public governmental throne chamber, to face Pharaoh amidst his government's full splendor and pomp. For Moshe, this represented a confrontation not just with the physical Pharoh but also, perhaps more notably, with his spiritual archangel. Feeling unworthy to confront such a challenge, Moses needed divine reassurance. 'Bo el Paro' was not just a command but an affirmation - God's presence would accompany him into the heart of darkness.
These opposing themes in the name (facing Pharaoh in his full glory) and the content (leaving Egypt towards the Promised Land) of our Parsha lead us to a very counterintuitive yet empowering reconciliation. Redemption does not begin once our problems are all solved and over; redemption begins the moment we have the resolve and courage to face our issues for what they are- knowing that we have God's assistance and trust him to help us achieve freedom.
This narrative is applicable to historical figures and to each one of us. In our individual and collective experience, we encounter formidable challenges, 'demons' that loom large. It is tempting, almost natural, to avert our gaze, to seek refuge in the comfortable and the familiar – a quiet professional life, a tranquil family existence. Yet, these choices, while seemingly safe, are but an escape from confronting the profound challenges, the 'Pharaohs' of our times.
The journey through Parshas Bo implores us to acknowledge our apprehensions and seek divine support. It teaches us that facing our fears is not a solitary battle. 'Bo'al Paro' is a call to confront the darkness with the light we each possess, a light awaiting its moment of redemption. True redemption, as exemplified in the story of Exodus, requires direct engagement with adversity. Each of us is beckoned to confront our challenges, no matter how impossible they seem. We must face them in their true form, without sugarcoating, with honesty and courage.
In this endeavor, we are not alone. The Divine presence accompanies us to our own 'Pharaohs'. It empowers us to confront, challenge, and ultimately transform darkness into light. In this transformative journey, we find not just the resolution of external conflicts but an inner redemption, a liberation of our highest potential.
Adapted from “Life Talks on the Parsha”