Torah Portion B’Shalach – Walking in Faith & Victory
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Torah: Exodus 13:17-17:16
Haftarah: Judges 4:4-5:31
Besorah: John 6:52-71
Shevat 10, 5785 | February 8, 2025
Shalom friends!
Have you ever faced a moment in life where you felt completely stuck? A time when you could see no way forward, but going back wasn’t an option either? Maybe you’ve stood at the edge of a big decision, unsure if you could really trust God to make a way.
If so, you’re in good company.
This week’s Torah portion, B’Shalach, is filled with some of the most awe-inspiring moments in the Torah—the parting of the Red Sea, manna from heaven, and victory against Amalek. It’s a portion about faith in the face of fear, provision in the wilderness, and learning to trust God’s leadership when we can’t yet see the full picture.
It also reminds us that just because we’ve been delivered from something doesn’t mean we automatically know how to live in that freedom. The Israelites were physically free from Egypt, but their hearts and minds still struggled with doubt, fear, and unbelief.
The theme of trusting God’s leadership and provision carries through all three readings this week:
- In the Torah portion, Israel faces the sea before them and Pharaoh’s army behind them, and they must choose to step forward in faith.
- In the Haftarah, Deborah leads Israel into victory by trusting in God’s power rather than their own.
- In the Besorah, Yeshua challenges His disciples to trust in Him as the true Bread of Life—even when His words are hard to understand.
As we explore these passages, let’s ask ourselves: Are we fully trusting in God’s provision and leadership, or do we still long for the “comfort” of what’s familiar?
You can download a printable copy of this portion along with study and reflection questions at the end of this post!
Torah Portion B’Shalach: Exodus 13:17–17:16
Understanding the Portion
The journey from Egypt to the Promised Land wasn’t just about a physical relocation—it was about a transformation of faith. The Israelites were freed from slavery, but now they had to learn to walk in obedience, trust, and reliance on God.
God deliberately leads them on a longer route through the wilderness instead of the direct road to Canaan. Why? Because if they saw war with the Philistines too soon, they might turn back to Egypt (Exodus 13:17). This decision highlights God’s wisdom in guiding us according to what we are ready to handle—even when we don’t understand it at the time.
Then comes one of the most powerful miracles in all of Scripture—the parting of the Red Sea. The Israelites find themselves trapped between Pharaoh’s army and the sea, and fear sets in. But Moses declares:
“Do not be afraid! Stand still, and see the salvation of Adonai, which He will perform for you today”
Exodus 14:13
With one great act of deliverance, God splits the sea, and the Israelites walk across on dry land. The same waters that save Israel destroy the Egyptian army. This moment is forever remembered in Jewish tradition as the ultimate sign of redemption and divine intervention.
Yet, the trials don’t end there. After the celebration of their freedom, the people quickly begin to complain.
- At Marah, they find water, but it’s too bitter to drink—so God miraculously makes it sweet (Exodus 15:23-25).
- In the wilderness of Sin, they hunger, so God sends manna from heaven, a daily reminder of His provision (Exodus 16:4).
- At Rephidim, they are thirsty, and Moses strikes the rock, bringing forth water (Exodus 17:6).
These events reveal how quickly people forget God’s miracles when faced with new struggles. The wilderness experience was meant to teach trust, patience, and spiritual growth.
Finally, the portion ends with the battle against Amalek (Exodus 17:8-16). Instead of relying on military might, Israel’s victory comes from Moses lifting his hands in intercession. This shows us that true battles are won not by our own strength but by our reliance on God.
A Little Nugget: Faith Over Fear
The Hebrew word emunah (אֱמוּנָה) means faithfulness or steadfastness. The Israelites struggled with fear at the Red Sea, but God called them to stand firm. Faith isn’t just about believing—it’s about trusting even when the path ahead seems impossible.
Application: Moving Forward in Trust
- What are you facing today that seems impossible?
- Are you longing for Egypt when God is calling you forward?
- How can you practice daily trust in God’s provision?
Haftarah: Judges 4:4–5:31
Understanding the Portion
The Haftarah tells the dramatic story of Deborah, the prophetess and judge of Israel. At this time, Israel was oppressed by King Jabin of Canaan, and his general, Sisera, commanded a mighty army with 900 iron chariots—a military force that seemed unbeatable (Judges 4:3).
God calls Barak to lead an army against Sisera, but Barak hesitates, saying he won’t go unless Deborah comes with him. Because of this, Deborah prophesies that the honor of victory will go to a woman—Yael.
Indeed, after the battle, Sisera flees and seeks refuge in Yael’s tent. She welcomes him, gives him milk to drink, and then drives a tent peg through his head while he sleeps (Judges 4:21). This shocking turn of events shows God using unexpected people to bring about His purposes.
Following this victory, Deborah and Barak sing a song of praise (Judges 5), much like the Song of the Sea in Exodus 15. Both songs celebrate God’s power to deliver His people against impossible odds.
A Little Nugget: Strength in Obedience
The name Deborah (דְּבוֹרָה) means “bee”, which symbolizes diligence, wisdom, and community. Just as bees work tirelessly for the good of the hive, Deborah worked for the spiritual and physical welfare of Israel.
Application: Walking in Boldness
- Deborah stepped up when others hesitated. Is there an area where God is calling you to step into leadership?
- Like Yael, God often uses unexpected people. Are you open to being used by Him in ways you didn’t expect?
- Victory doesn’t come from earthly power—it comes from trust in God’s plans. How can you surrender your fears to Him?
Besorah: John 6:52–71
Understanding the Portion
Yeshua delivers one of His most challenging teachings in this passage:
“Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in yourselves”
John 6:53
Many of His followers struggle with this concept. They take His words literally, not realizing He is speaking spiritually about faith and dependence on Him. Just as Israel had to depend on manna in the wilderness, we must depend on Yeshua, the true Bread from Heaven (John 6:35).
Many disciples turn away, but Peter remains, saying:
“Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
John 6:68
This passage challenges us to ask: Are we willing to follow Yeshua even when His teachings are difficult?
A Little Nugget: The Challenge of Faith
The Hebrew word lechem (לֶחֶם) means bread, but it can also mean sustenance or provision. Yeshua isn’t just talking about physical food—He’s inviting us into a deeper reliance on Him.
Application: Trusting the True Bread of Life
- Are you seeking spiritual nourishment daily, or only when you’re in crisis?
- When faith becomes challenging, do you press in or turn away?
- How can you develop a deeper reliance on Yeshua in your daily life?
Connecting the Portions: Trusting in God’s Leadership and Provision
One of the most powerful themes that ties B’Shalach, the Haftarah in Judges, and the Besorah in John together is trusting in God’s leadership and provision—even when we don’t fully understand His ways.
- In the Torah Portion, the Israelites stand trapped between Pharaoh’s army and the Red Sea. Fear grips them, and they even begin to long for Egypt, forgetting how God had just miraculously delivered them. Yet, God calls them to move forward, and when they do, He splits the sea before them, leading them safely across. Later, He provides manna from heaven and water from a rock, showing that He is their true source.
- In the Haftarah, Israel once again faces an overwhelming enemy—this time, the mighty army of Sisera. But instead of looking to their own strength, Deborah and Barak trust in God’s plan, and He delivers them in a miraculous way. Just like at the Red Sea, the victory isn’t about military power but about trusting in God’s timing, wisdom, and provision.
- In the Besorah, Yeshua reveals that He is the true Bread of Life—greater than the manna in the wilderness. He challenges His followers to trust Him for spiritual nourishment, just as the Israelites had to trust God for physical provision. Many struggled with this teaching, much like the Israelites struggled in the wilderness.
The message is clear: God provides, leads, and sustains—but we have to trust Him, even when His ways seem mysterious or difficult.
Reflection Questions for B’Shalach
- Stepping into the Unknown: The Israelites stood at the Red Sea, afraid and uncertain. Is there an area in your life where God is asking you to step forward in faith despite fear?
- God’s Daily Provision: The Israelites received manna daily, teaching them reliance on God. In what ways has God provided for you, even in unexpected ways? How can you cultivate deeper trust in His provision?
- Victory Through Prayer: When Moses lifted his hands, Israel prevailed against Amalek. What role does prayer play in your battles? How can you strengthen your spiritual endurance through intercession?
- Deborah’s Leadership: In the Haftarah, Deborah stepped up as a leader when no one else would. Are there areas where God is calling you to take action, even if you feel unqualified?
- Trusting Yeshua’s Words: Many disciples struggled with Yeshua’s teachings in John 6. Have you ever wrestled with something difficult in Scripture? How do you respond when God’s ways challenge your understanding?
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Hebrew Lesson for the Week: Nun (נ)
The letter Nun (נ) is the 14th letter of the Hebrew alphabet and carries deep meaning related to faithfulness, humility, and endurance.
The Basics of Nun (נ)
- Sound: Like the English “N” in “name.”
- Numerical Value: 50, symbolizing freedom, redemption, and transformation
- Appearance: Nun has two forms—regular (נ) when it appears at the beginning or middle of a word and final (ן) when it appears at the end of a word.
How Nun is Written
Standard Nun:
נ
Final Nun:
ן
Nun is written with a single stroke, resembling a bent shape, symbolizing humility. The final Nun extends downward, representing one who is upright and faithful.
Spiritual Meaning of Nun
Nun is often associated with faithfulness and perseverance. The word “ne’eman” (נֶאֱמָן) means faithful—a trait we see in figures like Moses, Joshua, and David.
Another important word is nes (נֵס) which means miracle or banner. This connects to the parting of the Red Sea in this week’s Torah portion, where God’s miraculous power was displayed for all to see.
Nun in Scripture
- Na’ar (נַעַר) – Means “youth” or “servant.” Joshua is called a na’ar when he faithfully serves Moses (Exodus 33:11).
- Nefesh (נֶפֶשׁ) – Means “soul” or “life.” It reminds us that we are more than just physical beings; we have a spiritual nature that connects with God.
- Navi (נָבִיא) – Means “prophet.” True prophets are faithful to God’s word and call His people to return to Him.
A Little Nugget: The Hidden Message of Nun
In Psalm 145, an alphabetical acrostic, one letter is missing—Nun! Jewish commentators suggest this is because Nun represents falling (nefilah), yet God’s grace is shown immediately in the next verse: “The Lord upholds all who fall” (Psalm 145:14).
Application: Walking in Faithfulness
- How can you reflect the faithfulness of Nun in your life?
- Are you persevering in trusting God’s provision, just like the Israelites in the wilderness?
- Where do you need to recognize God’s miraculous hand (nes) at work in your life?
Nun teaches us to remain humble, steadfast, and faithful, knowing that even when we stumble, God lifts us up. Are you willing to serve before you lead, like Joshua?
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For a printable version of this portion along with study and reflection questions, follow the link below!
Tree of Life (TLV) – Scripture taken from the Holy Scriptures, Tree of Life Version*. Copyright © 2014,2016 by the Tree of Life Bible Society. Used by permission of the Tree of Life Bible Society.
About Our Author
Diane Ferreira is a Jewish believer, wife, and mom, as well as a proud bulldog mom. She is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Jewish Studies at seminary, deepening her passion for Scripture and Jewish history. Diane writes with a heart to connect the rich traditions of her Jewish heritage with her faith in Yeshua, offering insights that inspire believers to grow in their walk with God. When she’s not studying or writing, Diane enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and crochet.