Jethro’s bold rejection of idolatry proves Israel’s God alone commands truth, moral clarity, and destiny.
Moshe’s father-in-law Jethro, known in Hebrew as Yitro, once stood at the pinnacle of global idolatry, serving as a leading pagan priest. After exploring every belief system of his era, Yitro made a dramatic and irreversible choice: he publicly declared that the God of Israel is the One True God.
This decision came at a heavy personal cost. Yitro abandoned power, prestige, and social standing to cling to truth. His transformation illustrates that genuine faith is not inherited or convenient—it is earned through humility, courage, and moral clarity.
In this week’s Jerusalem Lights, hosts Jim Long and Rabbi Chaim Richman reflect on why the Torah portion that contains the Giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai is named after Yitro. His recognition of divine truth preceded revelation itself.
The discussion also explores the unique status of the Ten Commandments—why these ten encapsulate all of Torah, and why they alone were proclaimed aloud, affirming Israel’s eternal covenant and moral leadership before the world.
Yitro’s journey stands as a timeless lesson: truth demands sacrifice, but it reshapes history.
