
Lessons of Shabbat Shirah for Our Times
Parashat Beshalach that we read this week is known as “Shabbat Shirah”—Shabbat of Song—because we read the magnificent and moving poem recited by the Israelite people at the Sea of Reeds. The poem is a spontaneous outpouring of their gratitude to God for His triumph, for His drowning of the Egyptians in the sea, and for the impact that His mighty deeds had on the surrounding nations. Because this Shabbat features poetry and song, many synagogues around the world include special melodies and choral performances in the Shabbat services. Upon closer examination, however, there could very well be another title for this Shabbat, not one associated with song or praise of God.