Day 6: D’var Torah – Parshat Yitro
By Mina Brandes (Chicago Impact Fellow)
In this week’s parsha, Parshas Yisro, we learn about the episode of Matan Torah. Moshe guided Bnei Yisroel to Har Sinai, where they began the process of receiving the Torah. When we look at the story, one of the most inspiring parts of Matan Torah is that all of Bnei Yisroel were included in receiving the Torah, teaching us that Hashem sees the value in every life, no matter the differences. Rabbi Lord Jonathon Sacks teaches that dignity comes from difference. Hashem created variety, and when we exclude people purely because of external reasons, we are furthering ourselves from Kedusha. Striving for Kedusha is an important value in Judaism, and something anyone is capable of. An accessible way to achieve Kedusha is by working on our interpersonal Mitzvot.
Bein Adam L’chaveiro is often held at a lower standard than Bein Adam L’makom. However, It is necessary to have a balance of both in our lives, as we can’t have one without the other. We can elevate our Middot and Torah by including others, and spreading Hashem’s teachings.
Have a Great Shabbos!