The importance of the words, “before the eyes of all Yisrael,” is indicated by their placement at the end of Sefer Shemos. Similarly, at the end of Sefer Devarim we find a comparable statement, which concludes the entire Chumash. The emphasis is placed upon the fact that this generation has served as eternal witnesses to attest to Hashem’s wondrous glory to all future generations. Today we view events of the past through the eyes of that generation. Hashem’s power, might, and miracles were demonstrated before a whole nation, not in an isolated place before a select group of witnesses. Consequently, their false spiritual mentors reported many miracles which they claimed were shown to them in private. Klal Yisrael, however, was able to identify Hashem’s miracles which were performed “before the eyes of all Yisrael” — not in a single incident, but “throughout all their journeys.”
Horav Avigdor Miller, Shlita, notes that all that happened to that generation has served to guide the ensuing generations with one significant difference. Those acts which were performed publicly for this historic generation were performed secretly in future generations. Hashem is with us wherever we go. The Cloud of Glory and the Shechinah are aspects of our relationship with Hashem. What was “seen” by that generation constitutes a model for future generations. Hashem’s protective influence over His people will never cease to be a guiding influence. If one only focuses his sense of vision, he will perceive what is obvious.
