Brandon’s Torah portion included the Ten Commandments — and more.  Exodus 18:1-20:23 is known as Parashat Yitro, named for Moses’ father-in-law Jethro (Yitro). He sees that Moses is working himself to death by making all the decisions for the Israelites and stages an intervention. “You need to delegate,” Jethro tells Moses. “Appoint judges to decide the small stuff and save yourself for the really big decisions.”

Moses takes that advice, then sets out with the people toward Mount Sinai. There, he prepares the Israelites for their upcoming close encounter with God, who will give them the laws for living as a holy people. The people tell Moses they’re afraid of getting too close to God. “You speak to us and we will pay attention,” they tell him. “Don’t let God speak directly to us or we might die.” So they stay at a distance while Moses ascends the mountain.

We’ll be talking about commandments, about the importance of delegating, and fear of powerful forces on Friday evening, and Brandon will have his wisdom to share on Saturday morning. Hope to see you there!

- student rabbi David Goodman