In times of crisis, we often feel exactly as our forefathers did at the banks of the Yam Suf (the Red Sea)—trapped between a vast sea and an enemy closing in behind us. On the Seventh Day of Pesach (Passover), we are not merely recalling a miracle of the past; we are being given a clear directive for the present—a lesson for today, for moments when the way forward seems completely blocked.

One of the most striking details of Krias Yam Suf (the splitting of the Red Sea) is that the waters did not split right away. The nation stood divided—some spoke of surrender, others of fighting, and others turned to tefillah (prayer). And then there was one individual, Nachshon ben Aminadav, who did not wait. He walked straight into the sea and continued until the waters reached his nostrils. Only then did the miracle begin, as the sea split before his very eyes, revealing a clear path, with the waters rising like walls on either side (Shmot 14:22; Rashi on Shmot 14:22).

This is not just a story—it is a directive. In a time of war, we cannot wait for a perfect moment or for clear signs from Shamayim (Heaven) before we act. Whether through quiet acts of chessed (kindness), supporting those on the front lines, or strengthening our inner emunah (trust in Hashem), it is our initiative that opens the door for siyata d’Shmaya........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)