Parshat Mishpatim - Yes, and...?
In the world of improv, there is an idea called "Yes, and...". The idea is that when anyone has an idea, you are not allowed to reject that idea at all. "No" or "I don't like that idea" are out of the question. You have to say "Yes!...and..." and then continue the idea for yourself.
Last week, the Torah described the receiving of the Torah at Sinai. This week the parshah begins with the word "and". It is a strange way to start a sentence, let alone a new chapter, and even more strange to start a new Parsha with the word "and".
The medieval comentator Rashi, explains that the word "and" builds on what came before. The 10 commandments that we read last week are foundational ideas in Torah and Judaism. This week's parshah says "Yes! And..." and continues to give us further guidance toward building a healthy and balanced society.
The more we can each look at the Torah and say "Yes! and..." the more we can each find our own way within Torah and build a better life for ourselves, our families, and our communitites as well.
Discussion Questions:
1. What is the difference between the words "and" and "but"?
2. Why is it so important to always try to add-on and build, instead of cutting-off and destroying?
3. Describe a time when you used "yes, and..." and made something amazing happen?
Questions and Answers from Last Week:
1. Can you describe a life changing experience that you have had?
I walked across Israel, from the Mediteranian Sea to the Kinneret. In that time, I found myself connecting so deeply to the land itself, and had one of hte most life-changing, spiritual experiences that I reflect on to this very day.
2. Do you think a big sound and light show is more powerful than a feeling in your heart or is a feeling more powerful than a "show"? Why?
I think while a sound and light show is really powerful in the moment, it is more about the impact it leaves in our minds and hearts. Even a big "show" can leave our hearts empty. However, if we have a deep feeling, even if the event was quiet, or only something we notice ourselves, it can impact us for the rest of our lives.
3. Why do you think that Judaism tells us to learn Torah every day and every night?
Torah isn't just a book or a list of rules. Torah is an approach to the world and to life. Just like our lives go from morning to night, so too our Torah learning needs to be connected to the begining and end of our days.