Bulletin February 2nd

Torah Portion Preview
For Yitro
Shabbat beginning February 2 nd , 2024
Yitro (Jethro, priest of Midian and Moses’ father-in-law) tells two stories. The first
recounts when Jethro brought Moses’ wife and sons to him, Moses was judging
disputes of the Israelites’ who queued before him from morning to night. Jethro
advised Moses not to wear himself out, but to appoint chiefs of thousands,
hundreds, fifties, and tens to handle minor disputes, leaving Moses to teach God’s
laws and judge the major disputes. The second story was God’s direct delivery of
the commandments from Mount Sinai as it erupted in thunder, lightning, the loud
blast of a horn, smoke, and trembling. The people pleaded in fear for Moses to
become God’s intermediary and promised to listen just to him.
The commandments tell us that the Jewish people’s endurance stems not merely
from the need for protection or dominance over neighboring nations, but from our
memorable set of fundamental ideals. Jethro showed the ancient human wisdom
that even the best practices can cause burnout, but collaboration can accomplish
their purposes. One Reform rabbi inspired us to “analyze current religious
documents to formulate solutions to interfaith problems.” The relationship
between Israelite leader Moses and Midianite priest Jethro exemplifies the
potential for such interfaith collaborations.
We invite all to come to synagogue in person or on Zoom on Friday night to hear
a more in-depth interpretation from Rabbi Meeka (or this Sabbath's lay speaker).
We also invite other views, interpretations, reflections, and even poems on each
Torah portion. If you have something to contribute, please email it to
RPC@templeadasshalom.org. This and prior previews can be found at Dr. David
Dirlam's website by clicking on Changing Wisdoms Projects.
Page | 2