Before we get to a possible explanation, it is important to preface the following idea. In general, it is known that the mitzvot of the Torah can be divided into three categories. The category of “mishpatim” (judgments) refers to the mitzvot that we understand the reasons for and likely would have thought of them on our own. In this category would be included such commandments as “do not steal,” “do not murder,” and much of the Torah’s civil law as we find in this week’s parsha. Another category, “edot” refers to mitzvot that we may not have thought of on our own, but the Torah explains the reason for us. An example of this would be eating Matzah on Pesach, which we do in order to remember the exodus from Egypt. The final category, “chukim”, refers to mitzvot that we do not understand the reason, but do them only because Hashem told us to, such as much of the kosher laws, shaatnez, etc.

With this in mind, we can go back and try to understand what Rashi was teaching us. The vast majority of the mitzvot in this week’s parsha match with its name and fall in the category of “mishpatim” – the rational commandments. It is very tempting, therefore, to perform these commandments simply because they are just, fair, and logical – but not as fulfillment of divine will. What Rashi was perhaps trying to emphasize by showing that “these too were given at Sinai” is that when we fulfill even the rational commandments it is important that we perform them primarily because Hashem told us to, and not because they make sense. Why? Because when one does a mitzvah out of one’s own logic, it is possible that one could justify exceptions. For example, one may believe it is rational not to cheat someone in general, but maybe that guy who cheated me yesterday, I could cheat him! It is only fair after all. However, if we view these mitzvot as divine commandments, then there is no room for such logic. Indeed, we must keep them with the same rigor and fervor as the more “religious” mitzvot – simply because G-d said so.

May we all appreciate and recognize the divine wisdom in every mitzvah, and indeed as Rashi has shown us, in every letter of the Torah.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Avner Anton