Shalom, Mitspacha!
“Balances of justice, stones of justice, an ephah of justice and a hin of justice you shall have. I am YHVH your Elohim, who brought you out of the land of Mitsrayim.”
- Wayyiqra 19:36
As Shmini draws to a close, the Spirit of YHVH turns our attention to the realm of transactions - the exchanges, agreements, and dealings that fill the daily life of every believer. Torah speaks repeatedly about weights, measures, prices, and fairness because righteousness is revealed not only in worship and prayer but also in how we handle what belongs to others. Every sale, every agreement, every exchange is a test of the heart.
Torah righteousness demands accuracy. It demands fairness. It demands that nothing we present, offer, or sell is misleading. It demands that we refuse gain that comes from someone else’s loss through deception. In the Kingdom of YHVH, honesty is not a virtue - it is a command.
We do not deceive in measurement, because deception in the marketplace is an attack on trust. YHVH commands honest weights and measures, reminding us that every transaction reveals the integrity of our hearts. When we use accuracy instead of manipulation, we reflect His truthfulness.
We do not hide flaws in what we offer, because righteousness requires transparency. If something is damaged, incomplete, or limited, we reveal it. Torah forbids selling what is misrepresented. Honesty protects both buyer and seller and aligns our dealings with the justice of YHVH.
We do not overcharge the vulnerable, because the Kingdom does not permit taking advantage of those lacking knowledge or strength. Fair pricing is not market strategy - it is obedience. Exploitation is forbidden; compassion must guide every exchange.
We do not delay payment when payment is due, because withholding what belongs to another is a form of theft. Torah commands that wages be paid on time and that agreements be honoured promptly. Timely payment reflects the faithfulness of YHVH, who withholds nothing from His people.
We do not pressure others into agreements, because righteousness never coerces. The Kingdom is built on willing hearts, and so are righteous transactions. Integrity allows others to choose freely, without manipulation or force.
We do not promise what we cannot deliver, because empty promises dishonour the Name we carry. Torah teaches that vows and commitments must be upheld. If we offer something, we follow through. If we agree to a price, we honour it without shifting or withdrawing.
We restore what is damaged in our care, because righteousness cannot walk away from responsibility. If something entrusted to us is broken or lost, we seek restitution. This mitzvah shapes a heart that values the wellbeing and property of others as deeply as our own.
Integrity in transaction is worship. Ask yourself today: Am I reflecting the justice of YHVH in how I deal with people? Every honest exchange becomes a small act of righteousness that testifies of His Kingdom.
YHVH our Elohim, teach us to walk with clean hands and upright hearts in every dealing today. Purify our motives, guard our words, and establish our steps in truth. Let every transaction reflect Your justice and compassion. May our integrity become light to others and honour to Your Name. Amen.
Baruch YHVH.
Shalom until tomorrow.