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Why does the Torah (תורה) use "asher tosim lifneihem" — "place before them" — instead of commanding the mishpatim? Rashi (רש"י) explains that interpersonal laws must be presented like a set table (shulchan aruch), made appetizing and enticing, because people assume they're experts in social relationships and won't listen to rules they don't buy into. The shiur explores why mishpatim require unique pedagogy and why the ganav is sold as an eved — he already exhibits eved-like traits of avoiding responsibility.
Rabbi Zweig begins by examining the opening phrase of Parshas Mishpatim: "Ve'eila ha-mishpatim asher tosim lifneihem" (Shemos 21:1). The question is why the Torah (תורה) uses the language "asher tosim" (place/set before them) rather than commanding directly. Rashi (רש"י) explains that this language means the laws must be organized and presented in an attractive, appetizing way — "ki shulchan ha'aruch umeuchan lifnei adam" (like a table set and prepared before a person). The comparison is to a properly set table that entices one to eat, not merely food placed down. This is the source of the term "Shulchan Aruch" for the code of Jewish law. Rabbi Zweig explains that Rashi is addressing a fundamental pedagogical principle unique to mishpatim (social justice laws). Unlike other mitzvos where one accepts God's command even without understanding, social laws require a different approach. Why? Because in the realm of interpersonal relationships, every person considers themselves the ultimate expert. People readily ask rabbis about Shabbos (שבת), kashrus, or niddah, but almost never about how to speak to their spouse, discipline their children, or conduct business relationships — unless there's already a crisis. In these areas, everyone assumes they know better than anyone else, even better than the greatest Torah scholars.
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Shemos 21:1-2, Parshas Mishpatim
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