The Jewish spirit: from Egypt to today

Bini Seeff, Grade 11, Yeshiva College

The Jewish spirit: from Egypt to today

If the past few years have shown me anything, it’s that the Jewish people are stronger than any of the trials and tribulations thrown at us.

In our modern world, it’s hard for me to conceptualise yetziat Mitzrayim (leaving Egypt) when open miracles were performed. Hashem stretched out his hand, performed ten makot (plagues), and led the Jews through the sea and the desert all the way to Mount Sinai. We were made into a nation, one chosen by G-d.

Then came 7 October. A time when our enemies emerged from the shadows to destroy us and take away hope. But instead, like the Jews in Egypt, we grew stronger. We became closer than we have been over the past century. I felt closer to my fellow Jews, and a deep yearning to be in my homeland, Israel. For the first time in years, I could feel my own “leaving of Egypt”.

Suddenly the miracles of yetziat Mitzrayim became no longer that hard for me to conceptualise.

We were led into gruesome battle, and from all the stories and encounters of soldiers, it’s impossible to deny that the hand of G-d is ever present, guiding them and answering our prayers.

Pesach is a time when we reflect on our nation’s past and the miracles that happened to us. In Pesach 5785, we can look at the state of our beautiful nation and really feel like our father in heaven is looking out for us. Just like our exodus from Egypt, may we continue to have the strength to get through the troubles the world is throwing at us. Our own yetzia is coming, and one day, we will be restored to our former glory in our land of Israel. May it be soon.