The Sedra Mishpatim 5786 – Why Would Anyone Choose to be a Slave?

In this week’s portion, Parshat Mishpatim, we encounter a perplexing scenario: a person who chooses to remain a slave even after their term of service has ended. Why would anyone willingly relinquish the gift of free choice? This is one of the greatest blessings Hashem has granted us. It allows us to earn rewards by overcoming obstacles and resisting the urge to sin. In this video, we examine the three steps the Torah requires for this slave: appearing before judges, standing at the doorpost, and the piercing of the ear. Each step serves as a profound rebuke. Standing at the doorpost should remind him of the mezuza and our ultimate purpose. Piercing the ear reminds him of the Sinai command not to steal. Even today, many of us trade our spiritual freedom for vanity or social approval. Let us wake up and cherish our true liberty. Shabbat Shalom!