WELCOMING SHABBAT

Shabbat is more than a day of refraining from worldly activity.

When experienced to its spiritual fullest, its holiness enlightens all other days of the week.

We invite you to enhance your Shabbat with these words of Torah.

 

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Parshat Yitro: Why I am A Proud Jew

Parshat Yitro: Why I am A Proud Jew

Jacobson, Rabbi YY
January 20, 2022

Summary of The Story of Jethro’s Admiration for Torah and the Jewish People

Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law and a Pagan priest of Midian, chose to join the Jewish nation after hearing of their remarkable journey. Among the reasons for his decision, Jethro was especially inspired by the giving of the Torah and the values it introduced to the world.

Jethro admired the Torah’s profound ethical teachings: its emphasis on justice, compassion, respect for the stranger, care for the poor, dignity for the elderly, and the belief that every person is created in the image of God. He recognized the Torah’s transformative impact on human civilization, introducing the concepts of moral law, human dignity, and purposeful living.

Moreover, Jethro was captivated by the Jewish people’s resilience and commitment to their faith. He saw in them a nation that, despite immense challenges, maintained a deep connection to their heritage, spirituality, and community. This admiration led Jethro to leave his comfortable life and join a people dedicated to timeless values and spiritual greatness.

NOTE: The above is a summary based on the original teaching.