Parasha Summary
Parashat Mishpatim follows Matan Torah (the giving of the Torah) and details a comprehensive system of civil, ethical, and ritual laws. It begins with laws concerning Hebrew servants, emphasizing their eventual freedom and dignified treatment. The parasha includes monetary laws (damages, theft, loans), moral obligations (protecting the vulnerable, honesty in justice), and ritual commandments (Shabbat, festivals). A key theme is the intertwining of interpersonal laws (bein adam l’chavero) and divine service (bein adam la’Makom), underscoring that a just society is foundational to avodat Hashem. The parasha concludes with Bnei Yisrael reaffirming their covenant with Hashem, declaring, "Naaseh v’nishma.