Ki Teitzei 2020

1While Shoftim generally contains Mitzvot relevant to the nation as a whole Ki-Teitzei generally focuses on individual obligations. Further investigation reveals a pattern associated with the commandments contained in this week’s Parsha. From the very first section forward the Torah’s objective is to teach us of the importance of human dignity. A special emphasis is given to respect and assist those most in need:

2The woman captured during war time is to be treated with utmost respect allowing her to mourn not only for the lost family but even for the lost deities! (Yefat Toar)

3Burial rules. (Kvurah)

4Return lost objects and assist when life’s burden seems overwhelming. (Hashavat Aveidah)

5Create safe sanitary living spaces. . (Machaneh Kadosh, Maakeh)

6Avoid unhealthy combinations (Kilayim, Shaatnez)

7Marriage and Divorce including rules of “The first year” (Gittin, Kidushin

8Treat refugees with compassion (Eved Boreach)

9Provide charity (Matnot Aniyim)

10Animal cruelty and worker’s rights (Tzaar Baalei Chayim)

11Not to strike a human being even when rendering lashes not to go beyond what can be handled. (Makot)

12Honest measurements (Mishkalot)

13Rules of how to deal with a stalker. (Rodef)

14Levirate marriage (Yibum)

15Prohibition against giving and charging interest (Ribit)

16Evil speech (Lashon harah)

17Treatment of the widow, the ophan, and the outsider (Beged Almanah) .

18Keep your word (Nedarim)

19The final section is about Amalek, to remember what happened and to act accordingly when encountering Amalek. This is a commandment on the community as no individual can fulfill it. I believe that this commandment appears in our Parsha specifically because Amalek’s attack against us was an attack on the weakest. “And Amalek attacked your weakest your stragglers”. Amalek is described as a bully coward who attacks the weak, the poor, and the outcast. We remember Amalek first to be sure that he is our consummate enemy and that he and his kind need to be closed down in every generation,

20Shabbat Shalom

21Dedicated in memory of Joel Shulman A’H.