Try to remain impartial when hearing the dispute of others.

In this week’s Torah portion, Mishpatim, the Torah introduces revolutionary ideas in its code of Jewish civil and criminal jurisprudence. For example, judges must distance themselves from false reports and bribes. In addition, there is a prohibition against favoring a defendant who is wealthy or poor, good or evil. In effect, justice requires a focus on the actual merits of the legal case.

To develop a deeper appreciation for Torah’s revolutionary ideas that focus on justice, read this illuminating analysis entitled, “Justice! Justice!” from Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald’s Torah message for Mishpatim 5782-2022. Out of respect for Shabbat, please consider printing it on Friday afternoon if you plan to read it on Shabbat.