Slavery

This lecture begins with an overview of Maimonides’ unparalleled contributions to Jewish scholarship, and then focuses on Maimonides’ approach to explaining the biblical institution of slavery.

Abraham In Parshat Mishpatim we witness one of the great stylistic features of the Torah, its transition from narrative to law. Until now the book of Exodus has been primarily narrative: the story of the enslavement of the Israelites and their journey to ...

G‑d is omnipotent. He can simultaneously be within and yet remain aloof. But we, His children... how can we be expected to suffer through exile while retaining our exalted status as G‑d's children?

Yes, there's tension here, and as every good dramatist and massage therapist knows, tension is a good point to play with

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 287 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 285 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

The very first law the Torah records after the account of the giving of the Torah is the law of the Jewish bondsman. This is most puzzling for a number of reasons including the fact that the Torah discourages the ‘acquisition’ of servants, and in fact his...

The different categories of servants in the Torah, and their symbolism and relevance even nowadays in our spiritual service of G-d.

The Sages say that he who acquires a slave acquires a master for himself. What are the rules that govern indentured servitude? Maimonides "Laws of Slaves" is used as a primary source. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 37)