Ki Teitzei 2020
Isaac’s Parsha Corner · 2020
Mitzvot, Mitzvot and more Mitzvot (74 in all)
While 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:
The 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)
Burial rules. (Kvurah)
Return lost objects and assist when life’s burden seems overwhelming. (Hashavat Aveidah)
Create safe sanitary living spaces. . (Machaneh Kadosh, Maakeh)
Avoid unhealthy combinations (Kilayim, Shaatnez)
Marriage and Divorce including rules of “The first year” (Gittin, Kidushin
Treat refugees with compassion (Eved Boreach)
Provide charity (Matnot Aniyim)
Animal cruelty and worker’s rights (Tzaar Baalei Chayim)
Not to strike a human being even when rendering lashes not to go beyond what can be handled. (Makot)
Honest measurements (Mishkalot)
Rules of how to deal with a stalker. (Rodef)
Levirate marriage (Yibum)
Prohibition against giving and charging interest (Ribit)
Evil speech (Lashon harah)
Treatment of the widow, the ophan, and the outsider (Beged Almanah) .
Keep your word (Nedarim)
The 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,
Shabbat Shalom
Dedicated in memory of Joel Shulman A’H.