Synopsis of the Torah Reading Bo
Exodus 18:1 – 20:23
Moshe's (Moses) father in law, Yitro (priest of Midian), meets up with Moshe and the Israelites in the desert (at Rephidim); he praises God for the wonders wrought for the Israelites.
Moshe appoints judges over the people to teach them God's laws and teachings, as Yitro has recommended to him.
The Israelites leave Rephidim and arrive at Mt. Sinai on the first of Sivan. A preamble discussion to giving and receiving of the Torah is followed by preparing to receive the Torah. The people are told they are a "segullah" (precious possession of God), a kingdom of priests, and a Holy nation. The people respond, "We will obediently do it."
The 10 Commandments are given – here is a listing of them.
I am the Lord Your God Who took you out of Egypt.
You shall have no other gods, no idolatrous images.
Don't use God's name for vain oaths.
Remember the Sabbath.
Honor your parents.
Don't murder.
Don't commit adultery.
Don't steal.
Don't lie in court.
Don't covet.
Repeated admonition not to make images of God.
Instructions on the altar of God – it should be an altar of earth, not to be made of hewn stones, no steps leading up to it.
Just as Israel has received a great revelation, the Haftarah recounts a great revelation, that of Isaiah. Isaiah is granted a vision of the chamber room of God on high, an image that shapes the Kedushah prayer in our Amidah. In this vision, Isaiah is warned of the impending doom of the kingdom of Judah if the people do not repent. The prophecy continues with an unfortunate scene in our history; the northern tribes of Israel made war on Judah with the help of Arameans (Syrians). God instructs Isaiah to tell the wicked king of Judah, Ahaz, not to fear. The designs of the Arameans and the Kingdom of Israel will be brought to naught. Furthermore, King Ahaz will bear a son, Hezekiah, who will be the Prince of Peace. The Haftarah concludes with great praises for King Hezekiah, who succeeded Ahaz. Hezekiah is remembered as one of the good kings, one who brought a time of peace and blessing to Judah. (First Isaiah's prophecy extended from about 740 to 700 BCE.)
