Resentment is one of the most destructive forces in human life. It corrodes relationships, clouds judgment, and undermines long-term happiness.

Yet it can feel deeply enticing.

In this talk on the Parsha of Beshalach, Chief Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein explores why bitterness takes such a strong psychological hold, and why the generation that left Egypt struggled so profoundly to let it go.

This week's Parsha is filled with complaints. Our Sages teach that of the ten times the Jewish people tested God in the desert, seven occurred here. These were not only cries of fear, but repeated expressions of frustration, cynicism, and longing to return to Egypt.

Why was a physically freed people unable to move forward?

Drawing from Pirkei Avot and the insights of our Sages, the Chief Rabbi reveals a psychological truth: freedom from slavery is not the same as freedom from the mindset of slavery. The Torah contrasts this mindset with another model entirely - one that endures hardship without surrendering to victimhood.

What is it that makes the difference? Why is faith alone not enough? And what does it take to move from resentment to responsibility, from complaint to inner strength?

KEY INSIGHTS EXPLORED

• Resentment can feel emotionally stabilising, even as it erodes inner freedom

• Attachment to the past often feels safer than the risk of growth

• Letting go of victimhood requires courage, not comfort

• True freedom begins with responsibility, not release