Why We Fulfill Laws We Don’t Understand (Parsha Pearls: Mishpatim) 5786

In this Parshas Mishpatim review, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the practical, common-sense laws (mishpatim) that follow the Ten Commandments—laws that “make sense” (e.g., damages, theft, honesty, fair treatment)—and contrasts them with chukim (statutes with no apparent reason, like the red heifer). He emphasizes that all mitzvot must be fulfilled because they are God’s command—not only because we understand them.

Key lessons:

• Mishpatim vs. Chukim — Mishpatim (rational laws) are intuitive (e.g., don’t steal, don’t murder); chukim defy human logic (King Solomon couldn’t understand the red heifer). Yet both are binding—do them because “God said so,” not just because they “feel good.”
• No compromise in halacha — Halacha never splits the difference (e.g., no “30-foot sukkah” between 20 and 40 feet). Mezuzah on a slant is the only compromise: vertical (one opinion) + horizontal (other) = slant, reminding us that peace in the home requires compromise.
• Fulfill mitzvot beyond understanding — Even meaningful mitzvot (e.g., Hanukkah candles for history/light) must be done because commanded—not just for emotion or meaning. When the “feeling” fades, the command remains.
• Parenting parallel — Children must sometimes obey “because I said so” (no explanation)—builds discipline. Same with mitzvot: intellect (chukim) overrides emotion when needed.
• Mezuzah as reminder — On a slant to symbolize compromise for shalom bayit (peace in the home). Every glance at a mezuzah reminds: do mitzvot for God’s sake, even when logic/emotion fails.

The rabbi urges: don’t rationalize away mitzvot when the reason doesn’t resonate—fulfill them with joy and commitment because they are divine commands. Live intentionally: intellect + heart + command = true avodah.

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This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman

• Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
  https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 13, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on February 13, 2026

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About the Host:
Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected]
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Keywords:
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