Shabbat Greetings

This week’s Torah portion, Mishpatim (Exodus 21:1-24:18), begins with a series of detailed civil and ethical laws: instructions on slavery, property, torts, and justice. Though these laws may seem ordinary, they teach a core Torah principle: every person deserves dignity, the ability to make choices, and protection under fair and just laws.

One striking aspect of Mishpatim is the Torah’s concern for vulnerable populations such as the stranger, the widow, the orphan, and the poor. These laws are not just technical; they are expressions of ethical responsibility and moral agency, creating a society where life, health, and autonomy are protected. This framework connects powerfully to  reproductive freedom. Judaism consistently values the health and well-being of each individual. The Torah permits, and sometimes requires, the preservation of life and health (pikuach nefesh). This principle extends to reproductive health: access to safe medical care, contraception, and abortion when necessary to protect life and wellbeing is consistent with Jewish law and ethics.

Many of the civil laws in Mishpatim emphasize consent, responsibility, and individual choice. The Torah’s legal system acknowledges that individuals must have the ability to make informed decisions within a moral framework. Reproductive decisions are a critical domain where autonomy must be respected. Also, Mishpatim consistently protects those who are powerless. In modern terms, this includes protecting reproductive rights, particularly for those marginalized by poverty, lack of access to healthcare, or systemic inequities. Justice in Judaism is not abstract; rather, it requires ensuring that everyone has the means to exercise their choices safely and with dignity.

As we reflect on Mishpatim today, we see that reproductive freedom is a Jewish value, rooted in principles of justice, compassion, and respect for life and autonomy. Upholding these rights is not only a societal imperative; it is a Torah imperative, honoring the dignity and moral agency of every person.

SHABBAT SHALOM