Weekly Torah portion
Parascha Shoftim שופטים
Deuteronomy (Dewarim) · Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9
„Judges"
Summary
The portion begins with the command to establish a system of justice by appointing judges and officers in every gate. Moses emphasizes that leaders must be absolutely impartial, warning that bribery 'blinds the eyes of the wise' and subverts the cause of the righteous.
The text outlines the framework for Jewish leadership, including the rules for a king, the roles of the Priests and Levites, and the emergence of true prophets. It provides guidelines to distinguish between a false dreamer and a messenger who speaks the word of G"d.
A significant part of the portion deals with warfare and ethical conduct during conflict. It introduces the laws of the 'City of Refuge' for accidental killers and the 'Eglah Arufah' ritual, which ensures communal responsibility when an unsolved murder occurs.
People
The Judge (Shofet)
An official appointed to interpret and apply the Torah law to ensure a fair society.
The King (Melech)
A leader who must write his own scroll of the Law and remain humble before his people.
The Prophet (Navi)
A messenger chosen by G"d to convey divine instruction and guidance to the nation.
The Priest (Kohen)
A member of the tribe of Levi who serves in the Temple and teaches holiness.
Key commandments (mitzvot)
Appointing Judges · Deuteronomy 16:18
The community is commanded to appoint judges and officers to enforce justice throughout the land.
The King's Torah Scroll · Deuteronomy 17:18
A Jewish king must write a second Torah scroll to carry with him, ensuring he follows G"d's laws.
Do Not Destroy · Deuteronomy 20:19
The prohibition (Bal Tashchit) against cutting down fruit-bearing trees during a siege or wasting resources.
The Unsolved Murder Ritual · Deuteronomy 21:1-9
The elders of the nearest city must perform the 'Eglah Arufah' ceremony to atone for an unsolved killing.
Full text
Quiz & badge
Answer every question correctly to earn the badge.
1. What famous phrase regarding justice is found at the beginning of this portion?
2. What is a Jewish king specifically forbidden from doing too much?
3. When laying siege to a city, what are soldiers forbidden from destroying?
4. How many witnesses are required by the Torah to convict someone of a crime?