Parashat Mishpatim, a tapestry of laws woven in the fabric of justice, unfolds after the thunderous revelation at Sinai It offers not only a code of conduct but a vision for a society rooted in fairness and compassion In this sacred portion, we find divine guidance on how to live with one another laws that protect the weak, the marginalized, and the oppressed. The Torah s instructions, like a gentle hand, reach across property disputes, injury, and human dignity, calling us to honor one another with integrity.
The laws in Mishpatim are not mere rules; they are the heartbeat of a just society, beating in rhythm with compassion and righteousness. Here, we learn that justice is not a weapon for punishment alone but a bridge that binds people together, ensuring every individual is seen, heard, and valued. Mishpatim reminds us that the law is a reflection of a higher moral truth, a divine light guiding our choices in the world.
In its essence, Parashat Mishpatim calls us to look beyond ourselves, to weave a community where fairness flows like a river, and compassion becomes the soil from which justice grows It is a call to create a world where the sacred and the everyday dance together, united by the laws of love, respect, and mutual responsibility
Announcements
Saturday, Feb. 22
4:30pm - Havdalah Bar Mitzvah of Max Rish
Sunday, Feb. 23
8:45am - Brotherhood Schmooze 9:30am - Sunday School
Tuesday, Feb. 25
2pm - 4:30pm - Boomers St. Pete History Biking Tour Scan Here to RSVP!
Located in St. Petersburg on Foridas beautifu west coast, Temple Beth-El is a Reform Jewish congregation that has served this area since 1928 and is focused on strengthening relationships and making connections We are a welcoming Reform community for Jewish and interfaith households to experience an uplifting and joyful sense of belonging as we seek to connect our members with each other and the greater community and world around us
Enjoy and have a ShabbatShalom!
Torah Portion
Parashat Mishpatim: Exodus 21:1-24:18
Saturday, February 22, 2025 / 27 Sh’vat 5785
Interpersonal laws ranging from the treatment of slaves to the exhibition of kindness to strangers are listed. (21:1-23:9)
Cultic laws follow, including the commandment to observe the Sabbatical Year, a repetition of the Sabbath injunction, the first mention of the Three Pilgrimage Festivals, rules of sacrificial offerings, and the prohibition against boiling a goat in its mother's milk. (23:10-19)
The people assent to the covenant. Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy elders of Israel ascend the mountain and see God. Moses goes on alone and spends forty days on the mountain. (24:1-18)
Relax! God put the wiggle in children Don’t feel you have to suppress it in our sanctuary or chapel.
Sit towards the front where it is easier for your little ones to see and hear what is happening on the Bima. They tire of seeing the backs of other’s heads.
Quietly explain our rituals and sing or clap when appropriate Children learn liturgical behavior by copying you.
If you need to leave services with your child, do so, but please come back
Remember that the way we welcome children in synagogue directly affects the way they respond to coming to synagogue, to God, to one another Let them know that they are welcome in this house of worship, here, at Temple Beth-El.
