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Why does the Torah (תורה) have two separate sections on courts - Mishpatim in Shemos and Shoftim in Devarim? The shiur develops that Mishpatim establishes correct Torah law, while Shoftim creates a higher level where the judge becomes a vessel for Hashem (ה׳)'s presence. This transforms din from human competency to divine reality-creation through absolute objectivity.
This shiur explores the fundamental difference between the Torah (תורה)'s two treatments of the Jewish court system: Parshas Mishpatim in Sefer Shemos and Parshas Shoftim in Sefer Devarim. Rabbi Zweig addresses why these seem repetitive and develops a profound distinction between two levels of din (judgment). The first level, represented by Parshas Mishpatim, establishes that Torah law should be correct and just. Here, a competent judge who knows halacha (הלכה) can render proper verdicts. The bribery prohibition (lo tikach shochad) exists to prevent wrong judgments - the concern is that incorrect rulings will result from corrupted decision-making.
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Parshas Shoftim
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What is the primary purpose of the cities of refuge - protecting the accidental killer or something else? The shiur argues that creating respect for law takes precedence over providing sanctuary. True deterrence comes from recognizing the gravity of murder itself, not fear of punishment.
