The Maor VaShemesh on Parashat Vaera teaches that redemption, Geulah, from Mitzraim required more than leaving slavery, it required Israel to become capable of accepting G-d’s kingship. Although G-d declared “אני יקוק, I am the LORD,” Israel, broken by fear and hard labor, could not yet internalize this truth. Accepting the yoke of Heaven must come gradually, until it becomes second nature.
Because Israel could not yet reach this level, Pharaoh had to be struck with the plagues. Seeing his power broken gave Israel inner relief and allowed them to develop the spiritual freedom needed for redemption. This is the meaning of “you shall know that I am the LORD who brings you out”: G-d would act in a way that prepared them spiritually before taking them out.
The Maor VaShemesh also explains that speech and inner freedom were themselves in Galut, exile, which is why Israel could not listen to Moshe at first. Finally, he explains that Aaron (Chesed, kindness) leads in redeeming Israel, while Moshe (Gevurah, strength) leads in confronting Pharaoh, together forming a complete and balanced redemption.
Use this source sheet, complete with footnoted sources and a concise, footnoted bio of R. Kalonymus Kalman Epstein (Ma’or Va-Shemesh) to enjoy this teaching at your own pace, perfect for self-learners.
Prepared by Rabbi Shalom (Saul) Orbach
The Ma’or Va-Shemesh is a classic Hasidic commentary on the weekly portions and festivals by R. Kalonymus Kalman Epstein of Kraków (1751-1823). A foremost later disciple, and for years the Shamash, of R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, he emerged after his rebbe’s passing as a leading figure in the fourth generation of Chassidut and of Polish Hasidism. His Torah blends close reading of the Psukim with mystical depth, emphasizing Dvekut, heartfelt prayer, joy, and sanctifying the everyday, with a hallmark leadership ethic: the tzaddik sweetens judgment into mercy and draws people close.