Mishpatim - Chamishi

The Jews are enjoined to distance themselves from falsehood. A person who has not been found guilty may not be punished; if he's really guilty, G-d will take care of him. Bribery is strictly prohibited because it colors the vision of even the most impartial person.

Every seventh year, the fields must not be worked and the poor are free to take what they want. (More about this later.) Similarly, we must refrain from labor every seventh day, the Sabbath.

We shouldn't even speak the names of idols.

There are three festivals each year: Pesach (Passover), Shavuos ("Feast of Weeks") and Succos ("Tabernacles"). All males must go offer sacrifices in the place to be designated.

Meat and milk combinations are right out.

Author: Rabbi Jack Abramowitz