Why God Gave the Parashah of Bo to Both Moses and Aaron

Midrash Tanchuma Buber, Bo 8:2

Curated by Arthur·Translated by Maggid (Beta)·

What is written above on this matter? "And the LORD said unto Moses: Pharaoh will not hearken unto you" (Exodus 11:9). Rabbi Judah and Rabbi Nehemiah disagree. Rabbi Judah says: This passage speaks from the beginning of the plagues — "Pharaoh will not hearken unto you." But Rabbi Nehemiah says: It is stated in its own place, at the sea more than in Egypt. "And Moses and Aaron did all these wonders" (Exodus 11:10). The Holy One, blessed be He, sought to give this passage to Moses by himself. The Holy One, blessed be He, said to him: You have taught well; by your lives, to the two of you I am giving it, as it is said, "And the LORD spoke unto Moses and unto Aaron" (Exodus 12:1).

Themes

Divine JusticeMosesEgyptPriesthoodMiracles

Biblical References

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