Parshat Tazria 5765
April 8, 2005

Az Yashir VI

“Tehomot Yechasyumu Yardu Bimtzolot Kimo Aven – Deep waters covered
them, they descended into the depths like stone.”

Rav Miller points out that it was the same Tehomot – Deep and fierce waters that frightened and immobilized Bnei Yisroel when they approached the Red Sea that eventually provided salvation for them. This is a lesson to be applied to all times. Our greatest concern can be harnessed into a strong support. Our greatest weakness can be transformed into strength.

When Bnei Yisroel approaches the roaring Red Sea they view it as an obstacle. Little did they know that it would split for them and miraculously bury their enemies alive.

The verse continues “Yardu Bimtzolot Kimo Aven - they descended into the depths like stone.” In two other places in the Az Yashir the drowning Egyptians are compared to lead and straw. Rashi explains the Middah Knegged Middah/ Measure for Measure - that depending on the degree of evil of each Egyptian is how he is drowned. The most evil Egyptians drowned like straw bobbing up and down, the next level were like stone, and the least culpable went down most easily like lead.

Every evil Egyptian was duly punished, and every deserving Jew was received his reward.

As individuals and as a nation we face many obstacles. Let us be cognizant of the lesson of the deep waters. If Hashem wills it, our worst fear, discomfort, and frustration can be our greatest support, strength, and fortitude.

Shabbat Shalom.

Rabbi Ephraim Epstein
rabbiepstein@sonsisrael.com

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