Shof'tim

שֹׁפְטִים
Judges

Deuteronomy 16:18–21:9

When Is Shof'tim Read?

/ 6 Elul 5785
/ 2 Elul 5786
/ 2 Elul 5787

Summary

  • Laws regarding both sacred and secular legislation are addressed. The Israelites are told that in every dealing they should pursue justice in order to merit the land that God is giving them. (16:18–18:8)
  • The people are warned to avoid sorcery and witchcraft, the abhorrent practices of their idolatrous neighbors. (18:9–22)
  • God tells them that should an Israelite unintentionally kill another, he may take sanctuary in any of three designated cities of refuge. (19:1–13)
  • Laws to be followed during times of peace and times of war are set forth. (19:14–21:9)

Ten Minutes of Torah: Shof'tim Commentary

Photo of multiple wooden people figurines on two shelves; one figurine is on a shelf higher then the rest

Motives Matter: Choosing Leaders Well

By: Rabbi Sari Laufer

Parashat Shof'tim deals with both the challenges and opportunities of leadership. Like much of Deuteronomy, the text imagines a world the Israelites do not yet inhabit; one where they are sovereign, settled, and agrarian.

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Video: Learn More About Parashat Shof'tim With Bim Bam

Learn More About Parashat Shoftim With Bim Bam

The Torah tell us "Justice, JUSTICE shall you pursue". To beat us over the head with a point, or to tell us something more? Join Rabbi David Saperstein for a lesson in the rules of just being, and being just. Enjoy this video and more with Bim Bam.

Listen to Podcasts About Parashat Shof'tim

Listen to Rabbi Rick Jacobs discuss Parashat Shoftim in these episodes of his podcast, On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah.

The Pursuit of Justice

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Rabbi Rick Jacobs