Shoftim - שפטים : "Judges"
Torah : Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9
Haftarah : Isaiah 51:12-52:12
Gospel : Acts 10-12

Thought for the Week:

We have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts (2 Peter 1:19). Remember the words spoken beforehand by the holy prophets (2 Peter 3:2)

Commentary:

For those nations, which you shall dispossess, listen to those who practice witchcraft and to diviners, but as for you, the LORD your God has not allowed you to do so. (Deuteronomy 18:14)

It is natural for people to seek spiritual direction for their lives. Uncertainty about the future, difficulty rendering an important decision, apprehension over an unpredictable circumstance or even simple curiosity inspire people to seek information from the supernatural. The Torah warns us not to seek spiritual direction from the occult. God forbids us to consult soothsayers, p...