When Yitro, for whom this week's Torah portion is named, gave some advice to his son-in-law Moshe, he urged him to be careful in selecting men to help him in judging the People of Israel. It was not sufficient that they be "able, G-d fearing, men of truth". They also had to be people who "hated unjust gain".

Without this last quality of being averse to gaining wealth in any manner tainted with injustice, it was unreasonable to expect one in authority to be perfectly objective.

This advice seems so relevant to the current situation in Israel. People in the highest levels of government are being investigated and even indicted for exploiting their power for personal or political party benefit. This atmosphere of corruption poses a serious threat to the moral survival of the country.

It is hoped that Yitro's caution will penetrate the hearts and minds of those who elect and appoint the people responsible for judging and leading who will be fit to secure Israel forever.

===================================== By Rabbi Mendel Weinbach, Dean, Ohr Somayach Institutions

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