Parshat Beshalach: "Raise your hand"

In the parsha, the Jews battle their arch-enemy, Amalek. When Moshe raises his hands, the Jews emerge victorious; when his hands rest, the Jews falter.

The Mishna (Rosh Hashanah (3:8) asks: "Could Moshe's hands really determine the course of action?" Two explanations are offered, which we'll study in class on Friday:

1. Moshe's hands alerted the Jews to the "source" of their strength, God (in heaven)
2. Historically, leaders in the army would raise their hands up as a sign of strength to rally their troops. Moshe's action followed this ancient practice (cited by Chizkuni).

I printed out two pictures: one of Tiger Woods, and another of a football player (don't know who he is). Each one illustrates one of these concepts. Students will use the pictures as a springboard for discussion of the Misna cited above and the commentary of Chizkuni to help clarify this episode in the Torah.

There's also valuable lessons contained herein: To face life's challenges, we need to be self-assertive (Chizkuni), but also must draw moral strength from our religious values and convictions (Mishna Rosh Hashanah).