This week’s Parsha, Mishpatim, follows the greatest event in Jewish history; the revelation at Sinai, and the giving of the Ten Commandments. Mishpatim then ends with more about the Ten Commandments event. Sandwiched between the two there are many basic laws.
One would think that after so great a spiritual high we would be discussing loftier pursuits, like prayer, meditation, love, and fear of Hashem, not basic laws concerning others.
Why does Hashem have it written this way? Why is it, that smack in middle of the most sublime, spiritual experience, we have the most rudimentary, seemingly unspiritual laws?
The first thing this teaches us is that to Hashem, it is more important that we get along than be spiritual. First, love your fellow, then connect to Hashem.
On a deeper level: We all yearn for a moving, spiritual experience. To be touched, moved, and inspired. To rise above the mundane and soar, to experience a high and touch the divine.
This sounds nice, but is this what we are all about?
Of course, we are meant to develop a relationship with Hashem, but there is something more that Hashem wants of us.
By putting these laws in middle of the most sublime event, Hashem is telling us that there is something special about basic laws that is sublime as well.
Could being good, kind, honest, and just, be spiritual? When you think of these laws as rudimentary, they are not so spiritual. However, if you see them as Hashem’s will, they take on a whole new meaning.
All of a sudden, the simplest things become meaningful. You are filled with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that you are doing what Hashem wants. Inspiration can be found in kindness, honesty, and in acceptance of the simplest Torah laws. Suddenly, spirituality starts to be found in the most unexpected places. The simplest act can be sublime and holy.
I have found that the simplest things in life make the greatest impact. For example, smiling at someone can lift their spirits. An honest compliment can change the way a person sees him/herself. When you learn to find joy in small things, there are always things to be joyous about.
Dina and I just celebrated our twentieth anniversary*. Unable to do much, we wondered, how we would celebrate this milestone. So we went outside, sat under a tree, and just enjoyed nature. The sun, leaves, birds, etc. It was wonderful.
Think of all the small things you can do to make a difference. Find joy in small things. If you do, you will always have something to be happy about.
(Rabbi Yitzi requested to add the following for this week’s publication:)
We have to be united if we want to survive this Galus (exile). We have to be united to thrive. No one can touch us if we are united.
*Written in 2016
