שמות ו,ג : וָאֵרָא אֶל־אַבְרָהָם אֶל־יִצְחָק וְאֶל־יַעֲקֹ ב בְאֵ -ל שַ -דָי וּשְמִי ה' לֹא נוֹדַעְתִי לָהֶם
The Sforno notes that the name Shad-dai (it is sufficient) denotes HaShem placing limitations on His creation in nature. This attribute was known to the Avos and passed on to their children. However, the readiness of HaShem to transform nature and involve Himself in the destiny of natures was not revealed to them. His “finger in history” and the changing of natural laws are expressed in the four-letter name of HaShem. HaShem tells Moshe to teach this aspect of Him to the Jewish people. Through this forthcoming manifestation they will become His people and be redeemed.
This concept is expressed in the forthcoming verses as the three reasons for the redemption of the Jews:
- (a) “But My name HaShem I made not known to them” to reveal His control of nature’s forces and concern of the destiny of the Jews;
- (b) “And I have also established My covenant” to fulfill the covenant made with the Avos;
- (c) “And I have, moreover, heard” to respond to the prayers and cries of the Jewish people.
