This week's parsha is Parshat Yitro. Prior to Bnei Yisrael receiving the Torah, Moshe's father-in-law Yitro brings his family and advises Moshe to appoint leaders in order to help judge the Jewish people. Bnei Yisrael arrives at Har Sinai, where they prepare for Matan Torah. With thunder, lightning, and the sound of the shofar, Hashem announces the first two commandments to the nation. After the second commandment, Hashem relays the commandments to Moshe for him to repeat to Bnei Yisrael, since Hashem’s voice was too powerful for them to handle. This Parsha, in which the Jewish people receive the Torah, ends up laying the foundation for all of Jewish history.
Based on this, one would assume that the name of the Parsha would have something to do with receiving the Torah. Yet, the Parsha is named after Yitro, Moshe’s father-in-law, who wasn’t even originally a Jew. Why, then, is Yitro chosen to be the name? Is Moshe’s father-in-law really more important than receiving the Torah?
Yitro, who was once a priest in Midyan, represents the ideal of spiritual growth. He was the first recorded convert in all of Jewish history! After trying out every single religion out there, Yitro chose Judaism for himself, showing not only the power of transformation but also the Torah's applicability to all of humanity. By naming the Parsha after him, the Torah stresses that it is not only applicable to the Jewish people, but is a treasure to be shared with the entire world.
The Or HaChaim comments on the significance of Yitro and his conversion through his role in advising Moshe to appoint judges. Yitro's advice set up the Jews for success while demonstrating how important justice and leadership are in a society governed by Torah values. He ultimately made sure the Jewish people would uphold the laws and commandments given at Har Sinai.
Furthermore, Yitro's arrival teaches us about the importance of the recognition of wisdom, regardless of its source. Moshe, the greatest prophet, accepted his father-in-law’s advice even though he was an idol worshiper in the past, demonstrating just how much people can change.
The Parsha’s name also serves as a reminder that the Torah was given in the presence of a convert, highlighting the diversity even back then. Every single individual stood at Har Sinai, from the greatest to the simplest, including souls who would join the Jewish people in the future. This diversity is so important in Judaism, because the Torah is meant to guide not only Jews but also to be a "light onto other nations."
Parshat Yitro is named after a man who represents Teshuva and inclusion. His story is a message that the Torah is accessible and applicable to all. The Jewish people must appreciate the diversity to every person's spiritual journey. May it be a merit to learn from Yitro's example and to keep the Torah's teachings with respect for every individual's contribution to our history.
Shabbat Shalom!
By: Dina Abramova (10th) and Tamar Van Dam (10th)
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