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Deuteronomy 26:6 - Egypt's cruel oppression remembered.

Deuteronomy 26:6 - דברים 26:6

Hebrew Text

וַיָּרֵעוּ אֹתָנוּ הַמִּצְרִים וַיְעַנּוּנוּ וַיִּתְּנוּ עָלֵינוּ עֲבֹדָה קָשָׁה׃

English Translation

and the Miżrim dealt ill with us, and afflicted us, and laid upon us hard bondage:

Transliteration

Va'yare'u otanu ha'mitzrim va'ya'anunu va'yitnu aleinu avoda kasha.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיָּרֵ֧עוּ אֹתָ֛נוּ הַמִּצְרִ֖ים וַיְעַנּ֑וּנוּ וַיִּתְּנ֥וּ עָלֵ֖ינוּ עֲבֹדָ֥ה קָשָֽׁה׃
וַיָּרֵ֧עוּ אֹתָ֛נוּ הַמִּצְרִ֖ים וַיְעַנּ֑וּנוּ וַיִּתְּנ֥וּ עָלֵ֖ינוּ עֲבֹדָ֥ה קָשָֽׁה׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah

This verse appears in Devarim (Deuteronomy 26:6), where the Jewish people recount their suffering in Egypt before bringing the first fruits (bikkurim) to the Beit HaMikdash. The verse serves as a historical reminder of the oppression endured, emphasizing Hashem's redemption.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Devarim 26:6) explains the threefold suffering described in the verse:

  • "וַיָּרֵעוּ אֹתָנוּ" (Dealt ill with us): The Egyptians sought to harm us physically and spiritually, as seen in Pharaoh's decree to drown Jewish boys (Shemot 1:22).
  • "וַיְעַנּוּנוּ" (Afflicted us): This refers to the harsh labor imposed on the Israelites, breaking their bodies and spirits (Rashi cites Shemot 1:11-14).
  • "וַיִּתְּנוּ עָלֵינוּ עֲבֹדָה קָשָׁה" (Laid upon us hard bondage): The work was deliberately designed to be unbearable, such as forcing men to perform tasks suited for women and vice versa (Sotah 11b).

Midrashic Insights

The Mechilta (Bo 13) elaborates that the Egyptians intensified their cruelty when they saw the Israelites multiplying despite oppression. The Sifrei (Devarim 301) adds that the phrase "עֲבֹדָה קָשָׁה" (hard bondage) implies labor without rest, even on Shabbat, violating basic human dignity.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Avodat Kochavim (1:3), Rambam notes that Pharaoh's oppression was part of a broader strategy to eradicate Jewish identity. By imposing backbreaking labor, he sought to prevent the Israelites from maintaining their traditions and connection to Hashem.

Lessons for Jewish Life

The verse underscores:

  • The importance of remembering past suffering to appreciate redemption (zecher yetziat Mitzrayim).
  • The moral obligation to oppose oppression, as later commanded: "Do not oppress the stranger, for you were strangers in Egypt" (Shemot 23:9).
  • Trust in Hashem's deliverance, as the narrative immediately transitions to His intervention (Devarim 26:7-8).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sotah 11b
The verse is cited in the context of discussing the hardships the Israelites endured in Egypt, emphasizing the severity of their oppression.
📖 Megillah 14a
Referenced in a discussion about the suffering of the Israelites in Egypt and the subsequent divine redemption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Deuteronomy 26:6 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 26:6 recounts the suffering of the Israelites in Egypt, describing how the Egyptians treated them harshly, oppressed them, and imposed hard labor upon them. This verse is part of the declaration made when bringing first fruits (Bikkurim) to the Temple, reminding us of our history and gratitude to Hashem for redeeming us.
Q: Why is remembering the Egyptian bondage important in Judaism?
A: Remembering the Egyptian bondage is a central theme in Judaism because it reinforces our identity as a people redeemed by Hashem. The Torah commands us to recall the Exodus daily (Deuteronomy 16:3), and this verse specifically reminds us of our suffering to deepen our appreciation for freedom and divine salvation.
Q: How does this verse connect to the mitzvah of Bikkurim (first fruits)?
A: When bringing the first fruits to the Temple, a Jew would recite a passage (Deuteronomy 26:5-10) that includes this verse. Rashi explains that this declaration acknowledges our humble origins and Hashem's kindness in bringing us to the Land of Israel. It teaches humility and gratitude, essential traits in serving Hashem.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the 'hard bondage' mentioned in this verse?
A: The 'hard bondage' teaches us about resilience and faith. Despite the extreme suffering, the Israelites maintained their identity and trust in Hashem's promise. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:12) highlights how they preserved their language, names, and morals, showing that spiritual strength can endure even in hardship.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This verse reminds us to recognize past struggles and appreciate Hashem's blessings in our lives. Just as the Israelites acknowledged their redemption from Egypt, we must express gratitude for our freedoms and spiritual opportunities. The Rambam (Hilchot Bikkurim 3:1-4) emphasizes that this mindset cultivates humility and devotion.