Week 17: Exodus 18:1 - 20:23
Haftarah Portion: Isaiah 6:1 - 7:6, 9:5 - 9:6
Summary: Jethro's (Yitro’s) advice to Moses, the revelation of the Ten Commandments, and the establishment of the covenant at Mount Sinai are emphasized. The Haftarah speaks of Isaiah's vision and the promise of a righteous ruler, emphasizing the significance of divine guidance and governance.
Thematic Connection: Revelation and Governance
Note: this week’s unit comes from new rabbinical student Lior Avraham. You can learn more about what Lior is learning by joining us at PRS, or if you’re moved by his story about Yitro and conversion, consider joining our conversion to Judaism program at Darshan Yeshiva.
By Lior Avraham, Rabbinical Student, Pluralistic Rabbinical Seminary
Yitro, the father-in-law of Moses, holds a significant place in history as the first Ger Zedek, a righteous convert. However, his journey towards conversion was not without resistance. Yitro had heard about the incredible acts of G-d in protecting and caring for the Israelites in the desert. From the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, which drowned Pharaoh and his army, to the victorious battle against Amalek, and the provision of manna, these events deeply impacted Yitro. He was moved to convert and become a part of the community of Israel.
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