The Zohar in this parsha tells of the Hebrew people heading toward freedom but coming to the raging waters of the Yam Suph. They are guarded by the pillar of smoke in the day and fire in the night and in each of these is one of the patriarchs. On the right is Abraham associated with chesed – kindness; and on the left is Isaac associated with gevura – discipline. Combining these aspects creates a balance in being. Hovering above them all is that manifestation of Hashem in the protective feminine dwelling form of the Shechinah. And above all of them are the fifty gates of the sephirot Bina, understanding. In the desert the Israelites will develop fifty aspects of their spiritual character, making them ready to connect to Hashem.