THIS Shabbat is known as "Shabbat Shira" because the focal point of the sedra, Beshalach, is the story of the crossing of the Red Sea and the singing of the Shira - the song of Moses.
Pharoah decides to pursue the Children of Israel. The people find themselves literally between the devil and the deep red sea. Actually, the red sea is a misnomer; it really should be called the reed sea (Yam Suf) as it was full of reeds and certainly not red!
The people run towards the sea and miraculously the sea splits, allowing the Children of Israel to walk through. The Egyptians gave chase, taking advantage of the safe passage through the sea.
Just as the last Jew reached dry land, the Almighty caused the sea to return to normal and the Egyptians drowned.
On witnessing their miraculous salvation, Moses led the men in song - the Shira - as thanksgiving to God. Miriam, Moses' sister, followed suit with the ladies.
The next major episode in the sedra is the account of the manna. The people complained that there was no food so God told them that He was going to send manna from heaven.
Each household would have to collect their daily ration. However, on Friday a double portion would fall, allowing people to collect the portion for the next day, which had become known as Shabbat.
The sedra ends with an account of war against the Amalekites, who attacked the Children of Israel but were defeated.
Next Thursday is Tu b'Shvat, the New Year for Trees. It is customary to eat fruit on this joyous day.
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