1)
Why did he extend the scepter to her?
1.
Malbim: This gives permission to stand and speak her words in detail.
2)
Why does it say "va'Takam
1.
Vilna Gaon: Va'Takam refers to Ashrei after Shemoneh Esre; va'Ta'amod refers to Kedushah d'Sidra (in u'Va l'Tziyon) - the world stands on it (Sotah 49a).
