How do we translate the phrase, "va'Yikra Gam Pharaoh la'Chachamim"?
The Pasuk is inverted, as if it had written, 'va'Yikra Pharaoh Gam la'Chachamim.'
What is the definition of "Chartumim"?
Gur Aryeh: They use the bones of the dead (Timei) to predict the future. 1 Refer to 7:22:0.1:1 for more.
Refer to Bereishis 41:8:153, and Bereishis 41:8:155.
What is the difference between "b'Lahateihem" (in this Pasuk), and "b'Lateihem" (in 7:22, 8:3, and 8:14)?
Rashi (to 7:22 [citing Chazal]) and Ramban: "B'Lateihem" - a silent incantation performed via demons; "b'Lahateihem" 1 - one performed via black-magic. 2
Malbim: "Lahateihem" is sleight of hand trickery - to bring skins of dead snakes and move them, creating the impression that they are alive. 3
Rashi (here): As in "Lahat ha'Cherev ha'Mis'hapeches" (Bereishis 3:24). See also Ramban.
Ramban: Performed via fiery angels of destruction (See for example Melachim II 6:17).
The Malbim (to 7:22) offers a similar explanation, even though it says b'Lateihem! It seems that he does not draw a distinction. (PF)
Why did Pharaoh, who was certainly a magician in his own right, not turn his own staff into a snake?
Oznayim la'Torah: He took his cue from Moshe, who ordered his second-in-command to perform the miracle.
What is "Gam" coming to include?
Riva: It includes the Egyptian children, who also did so, to show that it is not a big deal, since even children can do it.
QUESTIONS ON RASHI
Rashi writes: "B'Lahateihem - Their whispered [incantations] ... as in [the verse], 'the Lahat of the rotating sword' (Bereishis 3:24)...." Why is the word "Lahat" associated with a sword?
Gur Aryeh (to 7:22): The blade of a sword is polished and sharpened, and appears to be on fire. (Fire is an additional meaning of the word "Lahat," e.g., in Malachi 3:19.) 1
