"And these are the ordinances which you shall set before them." (Shmot 21:1)

One may ask: Why is the detailed code of laws outlines in Mishpatim necessary? Most nations have general codes governing their daily functioning and behavior without recourse to the detailed and specific type of laws found in Scripture. Furthermore, we are told by the Sages that the ten commandments encompass all of the 613 mitzvot, If so, why can they not stand on their own without the specific ordinances being spelled out?

The Ramban answers this in the following way, "'And these are the ordinances..' complements 'Thou shalt not covet' (20:14) (the last commandment). For if we did not know the specific parameters of property or finance laws, we would assume rights that we did not actually have.

This would lead us to covet, and seek unlawful possession. Therefore, we are told to put forth equitable laws and to conduct ourselves by them so that we will not covet what is not rightfully ours.

The Torah's laws are more than mere traffic signals that tell us when to proceed and when to stop. They are meant to shape man's spirit and character. They continue to prevent conflict and jealousy and to ensure that each man is content with his portion and finds his own wealth and happiness therein.

The material hardships that we experience as a growing nation are often compounded by the lust of what other nations possess - our need for immediate gratification without the endurance to build our own rich society.

We often covet what we cannot afford. But we must realize that if we covet, we will never feel satisfied. The Torah's laws and ordinances are designed to shape our character and guide our aspirations. By observing the Torah's commandments, we purify ourselves and bring ourselves closer to a sense of contentment, fulfillment and personal wealth.