The Exodus and the Challenges of Freedom

“it’s easier to remain in old patterns than to embrace the uncertainty of growth”

Parashat Beshalach is the dramatic turning point in the journey of the Israelites from slavery to nationhood. Having just left Egypt, they stand on the shores of the Sea of Reeds, pursued by Pharaoh’s army. Miraculously, the sea splits, and they cross on dry land. Yet, despite witnessing open miracles, the Israelites quickly fall into fear, doubt, and complaint. This tension highlights a thoughtful theme: the challenges of freedom.                         

Freedom is not just about leaving physical oppression; it requires an internal shift in one's thoughts. It is psychological and spiritual. A people who had been enslaved for centuries do not instantly transform into an independent nation just because they are no longer in chains. In Beshalach, we see the challenges of newly freed people and how they handle accountability. The Israelites had left Egypt, but Egypt had not yet left them. They were free, yet they struggled to trust HaShem and take responsibility for their destiny. As soon as they encountered obstacles--hunger, thirst, the threat of Pharaoh's army--they yearned to return to what was familiar, even if it meant slavery (Shemot 14:11-12).

This challenge is relevant beyond the Exodus. Often, people resist freedom because it demands responsibility. It's easier to remain in old patterns than to embrace the uncertainty of growth. Though life in Egypt was harsh, it was predictable. Now, faced with uncertainty, they long for the familiarity of their former servitude. In Egypt, they were dependent on their oppressors for sustenance, even if it came at a terrible price. HaShem provided sustenance daily, in the form of manna,  but the people had to trust that it would come again the next day. Freedom requires faith. This struggle is not unique to the Israelites; it is a fundamental human challenge. When we step out of our comfort zones, we often hesitate, even when we know the change is for the better. True freedom requires trust in HaShem and the courage to move forward despite fear.

Rabbi Jonathan Sacks (z'l) explains that liberation is not just leaving oppression but learning to govern ourselves, both as individuals and as a people. Freedom comes with responsibility. The giving of the manna is a crucial lesson–daily sustenance is provided, but the Israelites must collect it themselves. HaShem is teaching them that freedom does not mean a lack of structure; rather, it requires discipline and trust. The journey from Egypt to the Promised Land is about becoming a nation with moral and spiritual responsibilities.

This is a lesson for all of us. When we strive for independence, whether in personal growth, career, or spiritual life, we must accept the responsibilities that come with it. Freedom is not simply the absence of restrictions but the ability to shape our lives with purpose.

At the end of the parashah, Amalek attacks the Israelites (Shemot 17:8-16). One of the lessons we learn from this story is that freedom must be actively defended–both physically and spiritually. Moshe’s uplifted hands symbolize that success depends not only on military strength but also on faith and unity. Freedom must be upheld through continuous effort, ethical choices, and a strong connection to HaShem.

Parashat Beshalach reminds us that freedom is a process, not an event. It requires perseverance, faith, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Freedom is not an easy gift–it is a challenge. It demands courage to accept responsibility for our choices and the determination to defend our values. As we navigate our own journeys toward personal and spiritual freedom, let us learn from the Israelites’ struggles and embrace the responsibilities that true freedom demands.  May we all find the strength to move forward, trusting that HaShem is guiding us, even when the path seems uncertain.