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The Talmud explains that where an episode in the Torah begins with the word “hvhu” (and it was) there is a negative implication. This seems puzzling in regard to the Exodus from Egypt; what negative aspect is there to leaving the bondage and depravity of Egypt? On the contrary, this should be a source of joy and excitement. There are various reasons given to explain the number of plagues and miracles which Hashem wrought in Egypt. One of the purposes of the plagues was to imbue in the Jewish people a strong belief in Hashem and His awesome powers, so…

  Moshe said, “With the word zt I sinned, because I said since I came to Pharaoh to speak in Your Name he has dealt worse with this nation; therefore, with the word zt I will say Shira.” [Midrash] Moshe Rabeinu indicated that by beginning the Shira with the same word (zt) that he used earlier to complain to Hashem, he would atone for his previous error in judgement. This Midrash needs further explanation. How can Moshe’s error be corrected by offering praise to Hashem, simply by using the same word by which he sinned? An individual acknowledges Hashem’s favors…

There are some questions concerning the Shira which Miriam sang with the women immediately following the Shira which Moshe sang with the men. The posuk alludes to a question that was asked by the women, as it says: “And Miriam answered them”. What was the question? Secondly, if Miriam is responding to the women, then the Torah should have used the word “ivk” which is the female gender rather than its male counterpart “ovk”? Finally, why of the various acclamations of Hashem’s might and glory, does Miriam specifically choose the verse of “The horse and his rider he has thrown…