September 2-3, 2022 Parashat Shoftim
7 Elul 5782
This week, Deuteronomy teaches that leaders and rulers are required to be good people and not just good leaders. In ancient times, rulers could do anything they wanted. They had complete power over the lives and deaths of their subjects. They believed they were more important than their subjects. But Deuteronomy set out rules that changed the way leaders in the ancient world would govern.
Moses Maimonides, medieval philosopher and physician, wrote: “The king must not exercise his authority in a ‘stuck up’ manner. He should deal graciously and compassionately with the small and the great, conduct the people’s affairs in their best interests, be wary of the honor of even the lowliest. When [the ruler] addresses the public, [the ruler] should use gentle language.”
Questions for Reflection:
- What qualities do you appreciate in a leader/ruler? Is “gentle language” one of those qualities?
- Can you think of examples of leadership where the leader is also a good person?
Haftarah of Consolation – We read the fourth of seven special Haftarah portions of consolation leading up to Rosh HaShanah. This week’s reading from the Book of Isaiah describes a people in turmoil who are saved by G-d, the only one who can bring true comfort.
Getting Ready for the Holy Days – Wednesday, September 14 at 10:30 AM
Share your family customs, and learn about the prayers and rituals for the Holy Days.
Watch your ledge for information on service schedules, seating, food service, and more.
Please join our Shabbat celebrations in the Synagogue (masks required) or on Channel 1960
Friday at 5:00 PM Shabbat Blessings in the Dining Room
Friday at 6:30 PM Shabbat Musical Birthday Service with Rabbi Sherman & Cantor Shikler
Special blessing for Residents celebrating September birthdays
Music made possible by the Surie Family Jewish Music Fund
Saturday at 10:00 AM Shabbat Morning Service followed by Blessings in the Dining Room
Candle lighting time for Shabbat for the city of Mission Viejo: Friday evening at 6:57 PM
Shabbat ends Saturday evening at 7:51 PM
Shabbat Shalom Rabbi Sherman