Shemot - Yitro (Exodus 18:1–20:23)

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Shemot
Yitro (Exodus 18:1–20:23)

Jethro (Yitro), Moses’ father-in-law and priest of Midian, arrives in the wilderness with Zipporah and Moses’ sons after hearing how God rescued Israel. He rejoices, offers sacrifices, and then observes Moses judging the people alone from morning to evening. Jethro counsels a sustainable system: teach the laws and appoint capable, God-fearing judges over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens—leaders who handle routine disputes while Moses addresses the hardest cases. Strengthened by delegated justice, Moses sends Jethro home in peace.

In the third month, Israel encamps before Mount Sinai. God offers a covenantal identity: “You have seen what I did to Egypt… I bore you on eagles’ wings… you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” The people answer, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do.” After days of preparation and setting boundaries around the mountain, thunder, lightning, a dense cloud, and the shofar’s blast announce the revelation. God speaks the Ten Commandments: exclusive loyalty to God, the prohibition of idols, honoring God’s Name, Shabbat rest, honoring parents, and bans on murder, adultery, theft, false testimony, and coveting. Overwhelmed, the people stand at a distance while Moses draws near. The portion concludes with instructions for a simple earthen altar—no hewn stone, no steps—signaling that holiness depends not on grandeur but on faithful approach. Themes to listen for: leadership through shared responsibility, freedom anchored by law, and a nation formed not just by escape from Egypt but by a calling at Sinai.