by Rabbi David Woznica
If you are following the Torah reading these weeks are particularly exciting. Last week the Israelites encounter the Red Sea (sea of reeds). With the Egyptian army rushing toward them and the sea in front, they witness the parting of the sea, walk through it, and see the Egyptian army destroyed when they follow. The Israelites, after hundreds of years of slavery, are finally free.
In this week’s reading, Yitro, the Israelites receive the words from God that will shape the course of history, the Ten Commandments.
A cursory read reveals restrictions on human behavior “You shall have no other God’s before Me.” “You shall not swear falsely by the name of the Lord Your God…” “You shall not murder.” “You shall not commit adultery.”” You shall not steal.” “You shall not bear false witness…” “You shall not covet…”
There’s an inherent irony; we gain freedom only to be given restrictions. To create a good civilization, Judaism teaches the importance of learning to say no to some of our desires and impulses.
It is true for a good society and true for the individual. Self-control is a key for a stable and happy life. The “free-ist” people I know are those who have self- control. It’s a worthy lesson for us and equally important one to teach our children.
Shabbat Shalom
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