Category: Torah Law & Order

  • Fear God More Than Man

    When the midwives in Egypt get the order to murder all male Jewish babies they resist. The Torah states that they fear God more than Pharaoh. Fearing God will get you to do the right thing.

  • Limiting the Power of the King

    While recognizing that a leader was needed, the Torah limits the power of the king. It is interesting to note that this passage was the basis for the constitutional limits on the president of the US.

  • The 3 Weeks & the Redemption

    There were many bad things that happened to the Jewish people during the 3 Weeks. But it is also the time that we will see the beginning of the Redemption.

  • Korach & the HMS Bounty

    The dispute between Korach and Moses was really an ego trip on Korach’s part. In such a case it would have ended with Korach and his followers fighting with each other, much like the crew of the Bounty who killed each other after they mutinied.

  • Actions Have Consequenes

    Miriam meant well when she commented to her brother Aaron her concern that Moses seemed to be neglecting his wife. Though she meant well she was punished for the sin of malicious gossip. Meaning well is not enough. Your actions matter.

  • Be A Part of the Community

    The Torah stresses that we are a part of the community. The fact that even someone who lives off charity is required to tithe is important. We are all responsible for the upkeep of the community.

  • Betrayal of Society

    Marriage is the basis of society. When there is suspicion that the wife is betraying her husband but there is no proof then the Torah proscribes the ritual of the Mei Sotah, Waters of Contrition. This is to find out the truth and, if possible to save the marriage.

  • Punishment in the Torah

    In the view of the Torah a thief has to repay his victim for what he has stolen. Just sitting in jail is not enough. He caused damage to the victim and until the victim has forgiven him, he is not forgiven.

  • Bring Responsible

    The reason for a Jew to become a slave is that he is not able to pay his debts. But the Torah demands that he be set free in the 7th year. If he chooses to remain a slave he is punished because the Torah wants us to be free.

  • Avoid Swearing In God’s Name

    The Torah admonishes us not to take God’s Name in vain. Many will go out of their way so as not to swear in God’s Name. It is a common Jewish tradition to say “without an oath” when we promise to do something.