This week's Torah portion marks the beginning of the Egyptian exile, as the family of Jacob starts its transformation into the nation of Israel. The podcast explores how this exile was foretold in Abraham's prophetic experience at the 'Covenant between the Portions,' highlighting its significance in Israel's destiny. Jim Long and Rabbi Chaim Richman discuss the sages' perspective that the Egyptian exile served as a crucible for the spiritual growth of the nation. The episode also features updates on recent historical and archeological findings related to ancient Egypt.