Portion of Mishpatim (part 1). The Ten Commandments provided the general principals that would ensure the survival of the Jewish people. But if the people were to flourish as a nation a more detailed code of law would also have to be provided. An understanding of Jewish judicial law is also basic to a true understanding of Judaism and Jewish morality. Unfortunately, however, this branch of Jewish law is "blocked away" in Choshen Mishpat, the least accessible portion of the Shulchan Aruch (the standard code of Jewish law). Even most rabbis never have the opportunity to learn this all important body of law in all its fullness. With his great genius for simplifying even the most difficult topics, Rabbi Yaakov Culi here explains this body of law in such a manner that it can be understood by a beginner. All the basic elements of Torah jurisprudence are presented in a clear basic manner, following the verses of the Torah itself. As always , the presentation of MeAm Lo'ez in unique. Even when he quotes the Choshen Mishpat by chapter and verse, numerous additional remarks are added that add a crystal clarity to what may otherwise be an obscure law. Therefore, even serious students of Choshen Mishpat should find this volume an invaluable guide. Translated by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan. - from Amzon