5785/2025
Parashat Mishpatim begins with a set of additional Halachot Hashem gave at Har Sinai. The Ri Bechor Shor explains that Hashem commanded Moshe to transmit these laws to Bnei Yisrael through the judges that Moshe had just appointed. These mitzvot were meant exclusively for Klal Yisrael and were not to be shared with the nations of the world. But what makes these laws so special? After all, they primarily deal with monetary matters and servitude.
First, we must recognize that these mitzvot were also given at Har Sinai and hold the same significance as the Aseret HaDibrot. Rav Moshe Feinstein explains that the Mishpatim HaKadosh Baruch Hu gave us must be deeply ingrained in our minds, especially among the Talmidei Chachamim who sit in the Beit HaMikdash and remain close to Kedushah at all times. These Mishpatim, which focus on civil and monetary laws, teach us how to navigate daily life with integrity. Rav Feinstein further explains that one who is Machmir in these mitzvot and does not fall into the Yetzer Hara of dishonesty in financial matters will be blessed with greater Parnassah. When a person internalizes that wealth and livelihood come solely from the Borei Olam, his Yetzer Hara for money weakens. Of course, we must put in our Hishtadlut, but ultimately, success is determined by our Emunah and Bitachon in Hashem.
Emunah and Bitachon are lifelong Avodot. At times, it may seem difficult because we cannot physically see Hashem’s influence. Rav Reuven Taragin, in his sefer, explains that when we invest effort, we are rewarded accordingly. He quotes Ben Hei Hei in Pirkei Avos, who teaches that reward is proportional to the difficulty endured—“Lefum Tza’ara Agra” (5:23).
The Ramban, quoting a Midrash, states that the entire Torah hinges on Mishpatim—on justice. A community that lacks Shalom ultimately collapses. Rav Lord Jonathan Sacks notes that every empire in history that sought to destroy the Jewish people has fallen. The only entity capable of bringing down Klal Yisrael is Klal Yisrael itself. When we lack unity, we falter, as tragically seen in the destruction of the Beit HaMikdash, caused by Sinat Chinam.
Parashat Mishpatim also highlights how Tzedaka fosters unity. Tzedakah connects a community, bridging the gap between the wealthy and the poor. HaKadosh Baruch Hu designed the world in such a way that a strong bond between people positively impacts both individual lives and our collective Avodat Hashem.
Ultimately, the seemingly small Adam L’Adam Halachot of Parshat Mishpatim reveal the unique privilege of Torah and Mitzvot given exclusively to Klal Yisrael. These Halachot are not meant to be burdensome but rather a guide to living the most elevated life possible. When we are united and adhere to the laws of the Borei Olam—Who alone knows what is best for mankind—we tap into the ultimate Kedushah and Emet. In doing so, we bring ourselves closer to the coming of Mashiach. Have a wonderful and uplifting Shabbat!