Hearing of the miracles that Hashem performed for Bnei Yisrael, Moshe's father-in-law Yitro arrives with Tzippora, Moshe's wife, and their two sons, reuniting the family in the wilderness. Moshe details for Yitro the Exodus from Egypt, and Yitro converts to Judaism. Seeing that the only judicial authority for the entire Jewish nation is Moshe Rabbeinu himself, Yitro suggests that subsidiary judges be appointed to adjudicate smaller matters, leaving Moshe free to attend to larger issues. After consulting with Hashem, Moshe accepts this advice.
The Jewish People arrive at Mount Sinai where Hashem offers them the Torah. Once they accept, Hashem charges Moshe to instruct the people not to approach the mountain, and to prepare for three days. On the third day, amidst thunder and lightning, Hashem's voice emanates from the smoke-enshrouded mountain; He speaks to the Jewish People, giving them the Ten Commandments:
- Believe in Hashem.
- Do not worship “gods”.
- Do not use Hashem's name in vain.
- Observe Shabbat.
- Honor your parents.
- Do not murder.
- Do not commit adultery.
- Do not kidnap.
- Do not testify falsely.
- Do not covet.
After receiving the first two commandments, the Jewish People, overwhelmed by this experience of the Divine, request that Moshe relay Hashem's word to them. The Parasha ends with an exhortation against making idols and the command to build an altar to Hashem.
