Weekly Services

Summary

Parashat Shoftim (Deuteronomy 16:18–21:9) focuses on issues of leadership and establishing a just society. It takes its name from the opening instruction to appoint judges and officers in every community the Israelites will establish when they enter the promised land. The well-known phrase “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof” ("Justice, justice shall you pursue") emphasizes the importance of ensuring a system of justice and fairness as a foundation for a functioning society. Impartiality and avoiding corruption are key.

This Torah portion also lays out rules and expectations for political leaders. The Torah permits the people to appoint a king, but sets clear limitations on royal power. The king must be humble, not pursue excessive wealth, and must keep a Torah scroll with him at all times. 

Continuing the theme of ethical conduct, the parasha includes laws about warfare, such as exemptions for military service and the requirement to offer peace before attacking. Even when engaging in warfare, ethical behavior is emphasized. For example, when attacking a city the Torah forbids cutting down fruit trees. 

The parsha also describes the communal responsibility for justice, through the ritual of the egla arufa performed in the event of an unresolved murder case.

 

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Lindsey Healey-Pollack