Yisro 2020
Isaac’s Parsha Corner · 2020
“Such a son (father) in law like no one ever saw”
The commentators wonder why Yisro received such an important high-profile spot in the Torah. It is especially difficult according to those who believe Yisro arrived after Sinai and the Torah inserted his story back into our Parsha. At least if it was chronologically accurate then it makes some sense. Either way, Yisro ‘s appearance on the scene along with his advice must play an important lead up to Sinai. By profession Yisro was a high priest for the people of Midyan. He famously said “Now I know the Hashem is greater than all the other gods” Apparently, he retained a connection to the others. He just realized that Hashem was better, bigger, stronger, or more just and fairer than them! This goes against our belief. Despite this problem Moshe had a great affinity towards Yisro. “Moshe went out to meet his father in law prostrated himself and kissed him etc etc “. “Yisro took an elevation offering and feast offering for Hashem and Aaron and all the elders of Israel came to eat bread with the father in law of Moses before Hashem.” Yisro’s counsel about the leadership system for the new nation was accepted in total with no modifications or additions. This is especially disconcerting considering that the the Torah or at least He who gave the Torah may have had something else in Mind. The Torah has very specific requirements for all judicial matters (see Parshat Shoftim). How do we reconcile Hashem’s view of the system of leadership (Kohen/Levi/Yisrael. King/judge/police) with Yisro’s?? Furthermore, the Midyanites were an unsavory people. The were active in the attempt by Balak to curse the Jews. Their princess Kazbi seduced a Jewish leader publicly violating our national sanctity! In the end they are wiped out by edict of Hashem. Yet Yisro was at one time their high priest! Some suggest that the Yisro story provides us with an important lesson. We can and should learn wisdom from others. Alternatively, it teaches us that without practicality Torah will not succeed. (A lesson we obviously have not learned).
I would suggest that the Yisro story is actually a warning. Beware of leadership that is overly influenced by a close relative or friend. The close relationship may exercise undue influence on the leader and suddenly we are no longer Moshe’s people but Yisro’s people. The Golden Calf story teaches us to avoid all connections to idols and to those who worship idols including but limited to the enigmatic Yisro.