The Connection Between Revelation and Social Law
Parshas Mishpatim follows the giving of the Torah by introducing a framework of social and personal responsibilities. Instead of concluding the story of Revelation first, the Torah immediately presents laws governing social justice, beginning with the Jewish slave and maidservant. This choice seems counterintuitive, as a newly freed nation might find slavery abhorrent. However, it reflects Judaism’s unique integration of divine presence into human relationships.
The Role of the Oral Law in Understanding Torah
Rav Samson Raphael Hirsch explains that Judaism uniquely integrates God into social interactions, not just religious rituals. The last five of the Ten Commandments focus on human relationships, making the transition to social laws a natural progression. The emotionally challenging cases of servitude are placed at the forefront to emphasize the role of the Oral Law in interpreting the Written Torah. Without the Oral Law, the Torah’s laws could be misunderstood, leading to incorrect conclusions about their ethical foundation.
The Ethical Foundations of Servitude in the Torah
The Jewish slave and maidservant laws are not about exploitation but about dignity and rehabilitation. A thief unable to repay his debt is placed in a structured, supportive environment instead of languishing in prison. A young girl from an impoverished family is placed in a home where she gains education and opportunities, potentially leading to marriage within the family. By beginning with these laws, the Torah sets the foundation for a just society, demonstrating that true morality is measured by how the vulnerable are treated.