Why the Pillars of Cloud and Fire Never Left Their Place

"The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart" (Exodus 13:22). Scripture tells that while the pillar of cloud was still standing, the pillar of fire would begin to rise; while the pillar of fire was still standing, the pillar of cloud would shine forth. Another interpretation: "The pillar of cloud by day did not depart"—the light of the sun did not nullify it. "And the pillar of fire by night"—the light of the moon did not nullify it. Another interpretation: "did not depart"—even though they were rebellious, even though they provoked, even though they blasphemed. Another interpretation: "did not depart"—even though they recoiled backward twelve mil. Another interpretation: "did not depart." And who needed the pillar of cloud, and who needed the pillar of fire? Rather, it was to make a distinction for the men and women with discharges, for the menstruant women, and for those who had given birth who were among them. Rabbi Meir says: behold, it says of Abraham, "And he stood over them under the tree, and they ate" (Genesis 18:8); therefore the Holy One, blessed be He, set seven clouds of glory before them in advance.