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Exodus 2:4 - Sister watches baby's fate

Exodus 2:4 - שמות 2:4

Hebrew Text

וַתֵּתַצַּב אֲחֹתוֹ מֵרָחֹק לְדֵעָה מַה־יֵּעָשֶׂה לוֹ׃

English Translation

And his sister stood afar off, to know what would be done to him.

Transliteration

Vatetzav achoto merachok leda'ah mah-ye'aseh lo.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתֵּתַצַּ֥ב אֲחֹת֖וֹ מֵרָחֹ֑ק לְדֵעָ֕ה מַה־יֵּעָשֶׂ֖ה לֽוֹ׃
וַתֵּתַצַּ֥ב אֲחֹת֖וֹ מֵרָחֹ֑ק לְדֵעָ֕ה מַה־יֵּעָשֶׂ֖ה לֽוֹ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Shemot 2:4) describes Miriam, the sister of Moshe, standing at a distance to observe what would happen to her baby brother after he was placed in a basket on the Nile River. This occurs during Pharaoh's decree to drown all newborn Israelite boys.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that Miriam positioned herself "מֵרָחֹק" (afar off) to avoid drawing attention, yet close enough to see what would transpire. He notes that her intention was "לְדֵעָה" (to know)—meaning she was guided by divine inspiration (רוח הקודש) to understand the outcome, as she prophesied that her parents would bear the savior of Israel (Sotah 12b-13a).

Midrashic Insights

  • Miriam's Prophetic Role: The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:22) teaches that Miriam's name reflects her steadfastness (מרי—bitterness, yet she remained strong). Her standing "afar off" symbolizes her faith that Hashem would protect Moshe.
  • Divine Providence: The Talmud (Megillah 14a) includes Miriam among the seven prophetesses of Israel. Her actions here demonstrate her trust in Hashem's plan, as she awaited the fulfillment of her prophecy.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:1) discusses prophecy as a divine gift granted to those spiritually prepared. Miriam's presence at this critical moment aligns with this principle, as her prophetic insight allowed her to witness the unfolding of Hashem's redemption.

Symbolism of "Standing Afar Off"

The phrase "וַתֵּתַצַּב" (and she stood) implies a deliberate, resolute stance. The Netziv (Ha'amek Davar) highlights that Miriam did not passively watch but actively positioned herself to intervene if necessary, embodying the Jewish value of השתדלות (human effort within divine trust).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sotah 11b
The verse is cited in the context of discussing the bravery and wisdom of Miriam, the sister of Moses, who watched over him when he was placed in the Nile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is 'his sister' in Exodus 2:4?
A: In Exodus 2:4, 'his sister' refers to Miriam, the older sister of baby Moses. According to Rashi, she stood at a distance to watch over her brother after he was placed in the Nile River, to see what would happen to him.
Q: Why did Miriam stand 'afar off' in Exodus 2:4?
A: Miriam stood 'afar off' to discreetly observe what would happen to baby Moses after he was placed in the Nile (as commanded by Pharaoh's decree). The Midrash explains that she had faith that Hashem would perform a miracle, and she wanted to witness it while keeping a safe distance.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Miriam's actions in Exodus 2:4?
A: From Miriam's actions, we learn the importance of caring for family and having faith in Hashem even in difficult situations. The Talmud (Sotah 12b) highlights her righteousness and how her watchfulness led to Moses being saved and ultimately becoming the leader of the Jewish people.
Q: How does Exodus 2:4 show sibling responsibility in Judaism?
A: Exodus 2:4 demonstrates the Jewish value of sibling responsibility, as Miriam took initiative to protect her brother Moses. The Rambam teaches that family members must look out for one another, and Miriam's actions set an example of devotion and concern for a younger sibling's welfare.