Here are some potential reasons why the Israelites began their story with the Exodus:
- The Exodus was seen as the founding event of the Israelites as a people. It represents their liberation from slavery in Egypt and the beginning of their covenantal relationship with God. As such, it marked the birth of Israel as a nation.
- The Exodus and the events leading up to it (the patriarchs, Joseph's story, slavery in Egypt) take up a significant portion of the Torah. The Exodus is a pivotal narrative anchor for much of the early scriptures.
- The Exodus established Moses as the leader who would bring the Israelites to Mount Sinai where they received the law and became God's chosen people. It validates Moses' leadership and God's revelation through him.
- As former slaves, the Exodus represents freedom and deliverance for the Israelites. It is the symbolic transition from servitude to liberation. This carries deep spiritual and emotional resonance.
- The Passover festival rituals which commemorate the Exodus reinforce its centrality as a key identity-forming narrative for each new generation of Israelites.
- The Exodus foreshadows the promised return from exile in Babylon, a future seminal event for Israelites. Drawing this connection emphasizes continuity in their covenant history.
In essence, the Exodus as the inception of Israel's covenantal relationship with God is fundamental to their identity and ongoing relationship. By beginning with this narrative, the writers establish this transformative self-conception.