Shalom and welcome to the Parsha in 60 seconds
Today’s portion is from Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9 it is called Shofetim which means “Judges”
Moses sets up an impartial justice system without bribes and warned the Israelites against setting up idols. Sacrificing an ox or sheep with any serious defect was not cool.
Two or more witnesses were required to convict an idolater to death and the witnesses would throw the first stones. If a false witness was found out they would then meet the fate of the one they were trying to falsely accuse.
The Israelites were free to set a king over them, taking an Israelite chosen by God.
The king was not to keep many horses, marry many wives, or collect excess silver and gold. Cough Solomon…The King was to keep the law and his descendants would enjoy a long reign.
The Israelites were not to imitate the evil practices of the nations, such as child sacrifice, witchcraft and fortunetelling.
Moses foretold that God would raise a prophet from among them like Moses, and they were to listen to him. False prophets would also arise and they must be tested if found false they would be put to death.
The cities of refuge were established for accidental deaths such as an ax head falling of a handle and killing a neighbor.
When attacking a town, they were to offer terms of peace. Surrendered meant enslavement. not surrendering meant the men were killed and women, children, livestock, and everything else were taken.
Unidentified bodies were absolved by God after a ritual involving a heifer.
And that is Shofetim in 60 seconds.
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This weeks reading:
25 August
Deuteronomy. 16:18-21:9
Isaiah. 51:12-52:12
Psalm 17
Matthew 26:47-27:10
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