Names and Exodus

The Hebrew name of the second book of the Pentateuch is Shemot, (“names”), taken from the second word of the book, while in English it is known as Exodus, since the major theme of the first part of the book is the exodus from Egypt and its enslavement. Don Yitzḥak Abravanel [1437-1508] notes that our Sages referred to Shemot as “Sefer haGeulah” (the Book of Redemption), a name which parallels “Exodus.”

 There is a connection between the two names, as our Sages taught [Midrash vaYikra Rabba 32]: Israel was redeemed from Egypt because they did not change their names, their language or their garments. The Israelites retained their Hebrew names even in the Egyptian exile. While in Egypt, the Children of Israel retained and maintained their identification as Hebrews. Not only did they not hide the fact that they were Israelites, but they were proud of this fact, and this led to their redemption.