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Azar ow interesting that the portion which contains the Ten Commandments is named after a Midianite priest. Besides the many lessons which can be learned from the Decalogue, there are important instructions for us in looking fur- ther at Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses. As the weekly portion begins, Jethro hears all that God had done for Moses and for the Is- raelites. When the two meet, Jethro admits that the Lord of the Israelites is "greater than all gods." This is remarkable, com- ing from a pagan priest. He even offers a blessing upon Israel. "Blessed be the Lord who delivered you from the Egyptians and from Pharaoh, and who de- livered the people from under the hand of the Egyptians." By this comment, Jethro admits that the events which transpired were known beyond the borders of Egypt. The actions of the Lord were so powerful that even Jethro had to admit that Israel's God was supreme. News had obviously reached this Midianite priest who was particularly interested in the accomplishments of his son-in- law. Not only did Jethro hear the news about Moses' historic events, but he was able to inter- pret them, react to them and ac- knowledge their importance. Possibly only another priest like Jethro, even though he was a Midianite, could understand Moses' tremendous responsibili- ty in serving the Israelite God. Jethro worried about his son-in- law's physical well-being and the awesome tasks the Almighty im- posed on him. Jethro praised God, knowing that He had just delivered the Israelites from the Egyptians. God's might and pow- er were known, but many failed to understand the rigors of lead- ing the Israelites. A Midianite priest who himself was burdened with responsibility could offer sage advice to his son-in-law. While Jethro shows great kindness and friendliness toward Israel by expressing praise for what he had heard about them, he is unafraid to express concern for Moses' welfare. Jethro learns that Moses "sat as magistrate among the people, while the peo- ple stood about Moses from morn- ing until evening." Like a person driven by the weight of his re- H *itsctivii-leduat\--100 •Rolotatzpts) How Much We Learn If We Only Listen Dr. Jonathan V. Plaut is visiting rabbinic scholar at Temple Beth El. sponsibility, Moses replies to Jethro's concern by telling him that "it is because the people dome to me to inquire of God. When they have a dispute, it comes before me, and I decide be- tween a man and his neighbor, and I make known the laws and teachings of God." Jethro realizes Moses cannot continue this arduous work for long, and boldly says to Moses. "The thing you are doing is not right; you will surely wear your- self out and these people as well. For the task is too heavy for you; you cannot do it alone." Jethro provides valuable advice on the proper administration and dele- gation of authority. Our Torah clearly indicates Moses' pleasure on hearing Jethro's advice. Not only did Moses listen to Jethro, but he took his suggestions and re- vamped the existing system. The Midrash notes that Moses had re- ceived a command from God to appoint Judges, but it was con- cealed from him in order that Jethro should have the merit of having this parsha recorded in his name. Shabbat Yitro: Exodus 18:1-20:23 Isaiah 6:1-7:6 9:5-6. Rabbi Haim Ben Atar, the au- thor of Or Ha-hayim, notes that Jethro's visit with Moses in the wilderness intended to instruct us that while Torah is the center of all knowledge and law, there are some areas the Torah leaves to the expertise of others. Moses realized very quickly that Jethro offered important insights which should be readily implemented. This sedrah contains several valuable lessons for us. How dif- ficult it is to listen to the words of counsel from a well-meaning friend or relative. Many times our reaction is to become defensive and belligerent even when the ad- vice is intended without any ill will. Children become antago- nistic with the suggestions of their parents and even teachers, just as parents or those in au- thority may become defensive with the suggestions and thoughts of those much younger. The sign of maturity is to evalu- ate the counsel just as Moses did. In this complex world, it is im- possible to be proficient in every-