Pharaoh refused to let the Israelites leave and increases their work. God reminds Moses of the Covenant made with the patriarchs and reiterates the redemption of the Israelites from slavery. Moses tells the Israelites, but they are too fearful to listen to him. Moses is discouraged, and disinclined to speak to Pharaoh.
A genealogy is recorded, which centers on the tribe of Levi. Moses continues to doubt his ability. God encourages Moses and Aaron and tells them Pharaoh will refuse to let the Israelites go.
Moses and Aaron demonstrate their miraculous sign before Pharaoh: the staff turns into a serpent. Pharaoh’s magicians are able to do the same, but then Aaron’s snake swallows up theirs.
The ten plagues begin. The first is the Nile turns to blood. The second is the infestation of frogs. The third is lice.
The fourth through seventh plagues: beasts, domestic animals’ disease, boils and hail.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR AN ALIYAH
Doing an Aliyah is not difficult. Although these instructions may appear complicated, it is quite simple. The gabbais will help you if you have questions. If unaccustomed to having an Aliyah, you may wish to practice before being called for an Aliyah during a service.
BEFORE THE READING
Go to the right side of the baal koreh (Torah reader).
The baal koreh will show you the first word of the section about to be read.
Touch the margin next to the first word with a fringe of your tallit, kiss the fringe.
Grasp the spindles of the Torah and roll the scroll shut.
Continue holding the scroll and say the following blessing:
Bar-e-chu et Ah-doe-nai ha-me-voe-rach
pause as the congregation recites, Ba-ruch Ah-doe-nai ha'me-voe-rach le-o-lam va'ed, then continue on.
