Weekly Torah portion
Parascha Mishpatim משפטים
Exodus (Schemot) · Exodus 21:1-24:18
„Laws"
Summary
Following the Revelation at Sinai, this portion transitions from broad concepts to specific civil laws. It details the legal framework for Jewish society, covering topics like the treatment of servants, personal injury, property damage, and the importance of helping the vulnerable.
The text moves into social and ritual responsibilities, emphasizing justice in the legal system and the prohibition of bribery. It also introduces the three pilgrimage festivals—Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot—where the nation would gather to celebrate their relationship with G"d.
The portion concludes with the formalization of the covenant between G"d and the Israelites. Moses sprinkles blood to seal the agreement, and the people famously declare, 'We will do and we will listen,' accepting the Torah’s mandates wholeheartedly.
People
Moses
The primary leader who brings the divine laws down from Mount Sinai to the people.
Joshua
The loyal assistant to Moses who accompanies him partway up the mountain.
Aaron
The brother of Moses who remains with the elders to provide leadership during Moses' absence.
Hur
A leader who, alongside Aaron, was left in charge of the camp while Moses ascended.
The Elders
The seventy representatives of Israel who witnessed a divine vision at the base of the mountain.
Key commandments (mitzvot)
Lending to the Poor · 22:24
It is a commandment to lend money to poor Jews without charging interest.
Justice in Court · 23:8
Judges are strictly forbidden from accepting bribes, as they blind the eyes of the wise.
Returning Lost Property · 23:4
One must return a stray animal or lost object to its owner, even if the owner is an enemy.
The Sabbatical Year · 23:11
The land must rest and lie fallow every seventh year, and its produce becomes free for all.
Full text
Quiz & badge
Answer every question correctly to earn the badge.
1. What is the famous phrase the Israelites said when accepting the Torah?
2. How often does the Sabbatical year (Shmita) occur?
3. Which of these is NOT one of the three pilgrimage festivals mentioned in Mishpatim?
4. What does the Torah warn judges against taking?