January 24-25, 2025: Torah Portion Parashah Va'era - "And I Appeared"
In this study, we will explore the Torah portion, Haftarah, and Brit Chadashah, Tehillim (Psalms).
Torah Portion: Va'era שְׁמוֹת Exodus 6:2 – 9:35
Haftarah: Ezekiel 28:25 – 29:21
Brit Chadashah (New Testament): Romans 9:14-17, Revelation 16:1-21
Psalms: Psalm 105:23-45
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Newsletter by Dr. Hadassah Elia & Elihana Elia
Parashat Va'era (Exodus 6:2–9:35)
The Torah portion Va’era (וָאֵרָא) begins with God declaring to Moses: "I appeared (Va’era) to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as El Shaddai, but by My name, YHVH, I did not make Myself known to them" (Exodus 6:3).
This moment marks the unfolding of a divine plan for Israel’s deliverance, revealing God as both the promise-keeper and the Redeemer. The journey from slavery to freedom begins here, framed by the covenant made with the patriarchs and rooted in God's unfailing love and faithfulness.
SHARE! This NEW RELEASE MUSIC VIDEO for "MATZILEINU" really fits this PARASHA VA'ERA in parallel to the present situation of hostages and the proxies of Iran‘s war that Israel needs to face today.
Matzileinu is a Hebrew PRAYER that means "deliver us." It appears in the Passover Haggadah twice.
Matzileinu is part of "Ve'hi She'amdah", which appears in the Passover Haggadah, which translates to "In every generation, adversaries stand against us seeking to destroy us, but the Holy One saves us from their hands".
"MATZILEINU" (DELIVER US)
LYRICS BY DR. HADASSAH ELIA
FROM THE FURNACE OF AFFLICTION
YOUR HAVE DELIVERED ME
YOU’RE THE LIFTER OF MY HEAD
YOU HAVE OPENED MY RED SEA
WHEN THE ENEMIES PURSUE ME
AND I HAVE NO PLACE TO PASS
YOU HEAR MY CRY FOR MERCY
MY DELIVERER ACTS FAST
YOU ARE MY HEALER AND MY DELIVERER
BY YOUR MIGHTY HAND
HA’MATZIL SHELI
MATZILEINU MATZILEINU
MATZILEINU, MY DELIVERER
MATZILEINU
NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST US
WILL BE ABLE TO SUCCEED
THE GOD OF ISRAEL WILL ALWAYS
SAVE US IN TIMES OF NEED
FROM EGYPT’S PHAROAH TO IRAN
YOU ARE STILL THE SAME
THROUGH WARS AND PERSECUTION
YOU WILL ALWAYS GLORIFY YOUR NAME
YOU WILL BREAK THE BOW OF ELAM,
YOUR PEOPLE WILL BE ONE
PASSING THROUGH THE FIRE
THEY ’LL SEE YESHUA COME
THEY’LL CRY OUT BARUCH HABA
BESHEM ADONAI
HE WHO PROMISED TO RETURN
TO THE APPLE OF HIS EYE
ESA EINAI L’HARIM
MAYIN YAVO EZRI
EZRI ME’IM HASHEM
OSEH SHAMAYIM VA’ARETZ
___
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The Covenant Name of God (YHVH) Exodus 6:2 – 9:35 God's reaffirmation of His covenant, the promise of redemption, and the first seven plagues on Egypt.
In Exodus 6:2-8, God emphasizes His covenant name, YHVH (יְהוָה), and promises to rescue His people with four expressions of redemption:
I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians.
I will free you from being slaves to them.
I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and mighty acts of judgment.
I will take you as My own people, and I will be your God. Hebrew Insight: The four verbs of redemption—v’hotzeiti (I will bring out), v’hitzalti (I will deliver), v’ga’alti (I will redeem), and v’lakachti (I will take)—are the foundation for the four cups of wine in the Passover Seder. These promises are a reminder that God doesn’t just free us from physical bondage but also brings spiritual freedom, redemption, and a covenant relationship. Exodus 6:2 – 9:35 In this portion, God reveals His covenant name, YHVH, and reaffirms His promises to the Israelites, declaring His plan for redemption. The narrative includes the first seven plagues: water turning to blood, frogs, lice, flies, livestock disease, boils, and hail. These plagues demonstrate God's supremacy over Egypt's gods and His power to free His people.
Messianic Insight: The deliverance of Israel from Egypt foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Yeshua (Jesus), the Messiah. God's promise to "redeem you with an outstretched arm" (Exodus 6:6) is fulfilled in Yeshua, whose outstretched arms on the cross bring eternal deliverance from sin. Yeshua echoes this theme of freedom when He says, "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36).
In Yeshua, the Messiah, we see the ultimate fulfillment of these promises. He is the Redeemer who, with outstretched arms on the cross, brought eternal deliverance for all who trust in Him. The same God who heard Israel’s cries hears our cries today. As Yeshua said: "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36).
2. The Hardness of Pharaoh’s Heart
The narrative in Va’era introduces the first seven of the ten plagues:
Water turned to blood (dam).
Frogs (tzefardei’a).
Lice or gnats (kinim).
Swarms of flies (arov).
Death of livestock (dever).
Boils (shechin).
Hail (barad).
Historical Context: Each plague was not random but a deliberate assault on the false gods of Egypt, demonstrating the powerlessness of Egyptian deities like Hapi (god of the Nile) and Ra (the sun god). God was revealing His supremacy over all creation and His authority as the One true God.
Hebrew Insight: The phrase "Pharaoh’s heart was hardened" (וַיֶּחֱזַק לֵב פַּרְעֹה) highlights a tension between Pharaoh’s stubbornness and God’s sovereignty. The Hebrew verb chazak (strengthen/harden) reveals that Pharaoh’s heart was stubborn both by his own choice and by divine intervention. This is a profound reminder of human pride and its consequences.
Messianic Reflection: The plagues serve as a foreshadowing of God’s ultimate judgment against sin and evil. Yet, even amidst judgment, there is mercy for those who trust in Him. As Paul wrote: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Messiah Yeshua our Lord" (Romans 6:23).
Elihana Elia sang at the Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast at President Trump's Mar- a - Lago before members of the Knesset, influential believers of the Christian, Messianic and Jewish faith. 3. God’s Patience and His Outstretched Arm
God’s approach to delivering Israel wasn’t immediate but progressive, displaying His patience. Why? Because He desired that not only Israel but even the Egyptians would recognize Him: "The Egyptians will know that I am the LORD when I stretch out My hand against Egypt and bring the Israelites out of it" (Exodus 7:5).
Historical Note: Some Egyptians (the mixed multitude in Exodus 12:38) ultimately joined Israel during the Exodus. God’s redemption was not exclusive—it was an invitation to all who would acknowledge Him.
Messianic Fulfillment: In the same way, Yeshua’s outstretched arms on the cross extend an invitation to the whole world—Jews and Gentiles alike: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16).
A Message for Today: Trusting in God’s Redeeming Power
The story of Va’era speaks to us today as we face our own "Egypt"—places of bondage, fear, and despair. Just as God heard the cries of the Israelites, He hears our cries and sees our struggles. His promises remain true: "I have heard the groaning of the Israelites, whom the Egyptians are enslaving, and I have remembered My covenant"(Exodus 6:5).
Personal Reflection: When life feels overwhelming, we may wonder, “Where is God in my pain?” The answer is found in His covenant love. He is not distant—He is the God who appears (Va’era), who remembers His promises, and who acts to redeem.
The Emotional Core: Redemption Is for the Broken
Va’era is not just a story of deliverance—it’s a love story. God didn’t choose Israel because they were strong or perfect. He chose them in their brokenness. As Deuteronomy 7:7-8 says: "The LORD did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the LORD LOVED you and kept the oath He swore to your ancestors."
In Messiah Yeshua: God’s love is the same for us today. He redeems us not because of our merit but because of His grace. As Paul reminds us: "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Messiah died for us" (Romans 5:8).
Call to Action: Step Into Freedom
As we reflect on Va’era, let it inspire us to:
Trust in God’s timing: His deliverance is always perfect, even when it feels delayed.
Proclaim His name: Just as God revealed Himself as YHVH, we are called to make His name known to the world.
Step into freedom: Through Yeshua, we are no longer slaves to sin. Let us walk boldly in the freedom He has provided.
A Closing Encouragement
Take heart, for the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is your Redeemer. He hears your cries, sees your pain, and extends His hand to bring you out of darkness into His marvelous light. His love is unchanging, His promises are unshakable, and His redemption is complete in Yeshua.
"I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment" (Exodus 6:6).
Lift up your eyes. Redemption is near! Haftarah:
Ezekiel 28:25 – 29:21This portion parallels the Torah reading as it speaks of God's judgment against Egypt and His faithfulness to restore Israel. Ezekiel prophesies about the downfall of Pharaoh and Egypt as a demonstration of God’s power over all nations.
Ezekiel 28:25 – 29:21This passage prophesies the restoration of Israel and the judgment of Egypt, emphasizing God's sovereignty over all nations. God declares that His redemption of Israel will make His name known among the nations.
Messianic Reflection: The gathering of Israel from exile foreshadows the Messianic Age when Yeshua reigns as King and all nations recognize God’s sovereignty. The judgment of Egypt in Ezekiel mirrors the plagues in Exodus, revealing God's control over history and His ability to redeem His people. Brit Chadashah (New Testament):
Romans 9:14-17
Paul reflects on God’s sovereignty, quoting Exodus 9:16: "For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I may show My power in you and that My name may be proclaimed in all the earth." Paul highlights God's authority in showing mercy and using Pharaoh's rebellion to fulfill His purposes.
Messianic Insight: God's sovereignty, displayed in the Exodus, is fulfilled in Yeshua. He is the ultimate demonstration of God's mercy and justice, offering salvation to all who trust in Him, both Jew and Gentile.
Revelation 16:1-21
The plagues described in Revelation parallel those in Exodus, pointing to God's righteous judgment against sin and His call for repentance.
Messianic Reflection: Yeshua is central in Revelation as the Lamb who overcomes sin and evil. Just as the blood of the lamb protected Israel during the final plague (Exodus 12), Yeshua’s blood redeems and protects His followers during the ultimate judgment.
Psalms:
Psalm 105:23-45 This psalm recounts the story of the Exodus, celebrating God’s faithfulness to His covenant and His mighty acts of redemption. It highlights the plagues, God’s deliverance, and His provision for Israel in the wilderness. This psalm recounts Israel’s time in Egypt, God’s miracles, and His deliverance. It celebrates His faithfulness to His covenant and serves as a song of thanksgiving for His mighty works.
Messianic Reflection: The psalm underscores God’s faithfulness and redemption, which are fully revealed in Yeshua. He is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s covenant promises to Israel, bringing spiritual and eternal deliverance.
Key Themes in a Messianic Context:
God’s Faithfulness: The Exodus narrative and Ezekiel’s prophecy remind us of God's unwavering commitment to His covenant. In Messiah Yeshua, this faithfulness is revealed through the New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34).
Redemption: The deliverance from Egypt is a prophetic picture of the greater redemption Yeshua offers through His sacrifice.
Judgment and Mercy: God’s judgment on Pharaoh and Egypt parallels the end-time judgments in Revelation. Yet, His mercy is extended to all who repent and trust in Him.
God’s Sovereignty: The readings emphasize God’s ultimate control over history. He uses even the hardness of hearts, like Pharaoh's, to fulfill His divine purposes.
May this Shabbat inspire us to trust God’s plan, work for unity, and pray fervently for the deliverance of all who are in bondage—physically, spiritually, and even politically. A Call to Action:
The story of Va’era challenges us to trust in God’s timing, proclaim His name, and walk in the freedom provided through Yeshua. Just as God redeemed Israel from Egypt, He continues to redeem us through His covenant love.
"I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment" (Exodus 6:6).
Lift up your eyes—your redemption is near!
Romans 9:14-17
This passage reflects on God's sovereignty, as Paul quotes from Exodus:
"For this very purpose I raised you up, that I may show My power in you and that My name may be declared in all the earth." (Exodus 9:16)
It emphasizes God's authority in choosing whom He will use for His purposes.
Revelation 16:1-21
The plagues in Exodus parallel the judgments described in Revelation. These end-time plagues serve as a reminder of God's ultimate plan to judge evil and bring redemption to His people.
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How You Can Make a Difference:
1. Pray for Our Mission: We need your prayers as we move forward with this important ministry. Pray for favor, resources, and divine guidance.
2. Donate to Our Vision: Your financial support is crucial to making this vision a reality. Whether you give a one-time gift or set up monthly support, every contribution is an investment in the Kingdom of God.
3. Share the Vision: Help spread the word. Share this newsletter with friends, family, and others who might feel called to support this mission.
A Final Word: The Urgency of the Hour
The time is now. We are living in the final days, and the harvest of souls is at hand. Just as we must stand with Israel, we must also stand together to spread the Good News of Yeshua the Messiah. This is an urgent matter—souls are at stake, and the need is greater than ever.
We are grateful for your partnership in prayer and financial support. Together, we can make a powerful impact, not just in supporting Israel, but in reaching the lost with the Gospel message of salvation through Yeshua.
Thank you for standing with us. May God bless you richly, and may He continue to bless Israel and the work of His Kingdom.
Shabbat Shalom!
In His Service,
Elihana Elia & Dr. Hadassah Elia and team at RONI International Alliance, Lev
Echad One Heart Messianic Congregation & Restore Israel
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