When a fetus reaches full term, its mother’s body naturally initiates birth; the child descend and emerges of its own accord. By contrast, when a caesarian is necessary, the child is removed with external force. Had the Jews remained in Egypt for their full term of 400 years, Pharoah would have released them naturally, avoiding the need for the plagues. However, the Jews were at grave risk and G-d removed them early, with external force.
By contrast, the final redemption will occur at full term, when the work of rectification is complete. Not only will the nations not resist, but they will assist, as Isaiah prophesied (66:20), “They will bring all your brothers from all the nations as a tribute to G-d.”
(Shem MiShmuel/Yalkut Moshiach UGeula al HaTorah)
Counting the Omer
Connecting Passover and the Holiday of Shavuot, the days of the Omer starting on the second day of Passover - our day of liberation from slavery. Shavuot is the day on which we commemorate the receiving of the Torah - the culmination of our liberation.
Why do we count these days, measuring time? Time just marches on. We may march to the beat of a different drummer, but we can’t actually change time, can we?
Quantitatively, time cannot be changed. But, qualitatively, we can make time meaningful. In the days between Passover and Shavuot, we are preparing for the receiving of the Torah. During this preparation period, we should strive for meaningful accomplishments. In this way, we elevate our own time beyond and above time.
Every day when we count the Omer, we are reminded that there are things that need to be attended to on particular day and not left for tomorrow. By doing so, we will certainly hasten the Redemption and the coming of Moshiach.
