As the Jewish people are about to receive the Torah on Mount Sinai, Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, gives Moses some invaluable and wise advice.

Amongst his words of wisdom, Jethro advises Moses to teach the people “the path in which they should go”.

The Talmud interprets this phrase as referring to acts of loving kindness.

Why, at this moment, does Jethro give this advice?

Sometimes religious people are so overly enthusiastic about their religious observance, they forget about being kind, tolerant and sensitive.

As the Jewish people were about to experience the most historical and important spiritual event ever, Jethro was concerned that they may forget the basics.

This would be a lesson for all time. Don’t let your religiosity make you less kind!

Be as spiritual and religious as you like but don’t let that come in the way of being kind.

Good Shabbos!