Weekly Torah portion
Parascha Yitro יתרו
Exodus (Schemot) · Exodus 18:1-20:23
„His Abundance"
Summary
The portion begins with Yitro, the father-in-law of Moses, joining the Israelites in the desert. Recognizing that Moses is overwhelmed by leading the people alone, he advises establishing a judicial system of lower courts to handle smaller disputes.
The central event occurs at Mount Sinai, where the entire nation of Israel gathers to receive the Torah. In a moment of divine revelation, G"d speaks to the people, establishing a covenant that defines their identity as a holy nation.
During this revelation, the Ten Commandments are proclaimed, providing the foundational moral and spiritual laws for the Jewish people. These include commands regarding the belief in G"d, the sanctity of Shabbat, and ethical conduct toward others.
People
Yitro
The Midianite priest and father-in-law of Moses who suggested a system of delegated leadership.
Moses
The prophet who ascended Mount Sinai to mediate between G"d and the Israelites.
Zipporah
The wife of Moses who returned to him in the desert along with their two sons.
Aaron
The brother of Moses who accompanied him to the mountain during the divine revelation.
Gershom
The eldest son of Moses whose name reflects being a stranger in a foreign land.
Key commandments (mitzvot)
Belief in G"d · 20:2
The obligation to believe in the existence of one G"d who brought the Israelites out of Egypt.
Prohibition of Idolatry · 20:3
The command not to make or worship any statues or representations of other deities.
Honoring Parents · 20:12
The duty to show respect and honor to one's father and mother.
Observing Shabbat · 20:8
The requirement to remember and keep the seventh day holy by refraining from creative work.
Full text
Quiz & badge
Answer every question correctly to earn the badge.
1. What administrative advice did Yitro give to Moses?
2. Where did the Israelites receive the Ten Commandments?
3. Which of these is one of the Ten Commandments mentioned in this portion?
4. How did the people react to the thunder and lightning at the mountain?