Perek Shira: The Song of Existence - The Song of the Clouds of Glory
by Rabbi Shmuel Kraines
The Clouds of Glory say, “Even in clarity He forms clouds; the clouds shined His light.” (Iyov 37:11)
The Clouds of Glory sing of Hashem’s fatherly care for His chosen nation. When the Jewish People wandered through the wilderness, He surrounded them on all sides with six Clouds, and an additional Cloud floated ahead of them to lead them. They protected the Jewish People from the elements, killed dangerous snakes and scorpions, and even flattened mountains in their way. Moreover, they shone with the splendor of Hashem’s glory. Throughout the forty years in the desert, the nation did not require sunlight.
They thus sing how, contrary to rainclouds which are formed from moisture and block light, the Clouds of Glory are formed “even in clarity,” without moisture, and “shined His light” upon the Jewish nation.
We are obliged never to forget how Hashem sheltered us in the desert. We should likewise care for fellow Jews in the way He did and still does for us. In doing so, we emulate Hashem and reveal His glory in the world.
- Sources: Beraisa d’Meleches HaMishkan; Mechilta (Beshalach); Avos D’Rabbi Nassan (25)
*In loving memory of Harav Zeev Shlomo ben Zecharia Leib
