We see a connection between Genesis and Exodus in verses 1-5. These verses repeat details from Genesis 46:8-27 to show that the upcoming events involve the same people who once traveled to Egypt filled with hopes, dreams, and longing. Their population grew, their progress advanced, and their strength shifted their fortunes. They became targets of persecution, nearly leading to their destruction (11-22). Despite the diverse sources in the first chapter, a common purpose emerges: to highlight the battle between life and death from the outset. These stories, preserved and read by Israelites during exile, became especially relevant as they suffered similar agonies under a comparable plan of death. Therefore, reading Exodus should go beyond just a liturgical practice. It should act as a guide for our exoduses, our pursuit of freedom, and our efforts to build the life project that God desires.