Drash on Parashat Yitro 2025

Rabbi Adi Cohen

Temple Shalom Gold Coast

Coexistence and Shared Wisdom
This week’s Torah portion, Parashat Yitro, introduces us to Yitro, the Midianite High-Priest and Moshes’ father-in-law. Yitro reconnect with Moshe, following the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and the splitting of the sea. He arrives in the wilderness, bringing with him Moses’ wife, Tziporah, and their two sons. The family reunion turns into the the establishment of the Israelite judicial system and, by extension, a model of wise leadership.

Yitro observes Moshe single-handedly judging the people and recognises that such a system is unsustainable. His advice is brutally honest:

“You will surely wear yourself out, both you and these people with you, for the task is too heavy for you; you cannot do it alone” (Exodus 18:18).
He proposes a decentralised system, appointing capable leaders to judge the people, with Moshe handling only the most challenging cases. His recommendation reflects administrative wisdom and a deep understanding of the need to share community responsibility.

While Yitro plays a small role in our Torah, his legacy extends far beyond Judaism. In the Druze religion, Yitro is revered as Shu’ayb, a prophet and a foundational figure. The Druze, a monotheistic religious and ethnic minority with roots in the Middle East, view Shu’ayb as a teacher of divine wisdom, emphasising justice, moderation, and ethical leadership; principles consistent with his role in our Torah.

For the Druze community, Yitro’s tomb, located in Hittin near Tiberias, is a site of pilgrimage, prayer and study. This shared reverence for a single biblical figure demonstrates the interconnectedness of our traditions and the potential for mutual respect and understanding.

Photo: Rabbi Adi Cohen with Honourable Sheick Muafak Tariff (the spiritual leader of the Druze in Israel)

The relationship between the Jewish and Druze communities in Israel provides a powerful model for coexistence. The Druze, though a distinct and proud community, have forged a deep bond with the Jewish people. They serve with distinction in the Israel Defence Forces, contribute to the country’s cultural, agricultural and political life, and maintain their unique religious and cultural identity.

This partnership is not merely pragmatic; it is rooted in shared values. The Druze embrace a philosophy of loyalty to the country in which they reside, and their commitment to Israel exemplifies this principle. In turn, the Jewish people have a responsibility to honour this bond by ensuring that the Druze community is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. The collaboration between the two religions illustrates that coexistence is not about erasing differences but about embracing them within a framework of mutual respect and shared purpose.

Yitro’s story challenges us to embrace wisdom from unexpected sources. As Jews, we are described as “a light unto the nations” (Isaiah 42:6), but Parashat Yitro reminds us that illumination is a two-way street. Yitro, an outsider to the covenant, offered guidance that shaped the governance of the Israelite nation. His willingness to speak and Moses’ humility in listening are examples of the dialogue and openness required for true coexistence.

In our modern context, the relationship between Jews and Druze in Israel reflects this dynamic. The Druze have enriched Israeli society, not only through their service and contributions but through their unique cultural and spiritual heritage. Similarly, our Torah reminds us that wisdom is not confined to one people or tradition. We are strongest when we learn from one another.

Of course, no relationship is without its challenges. The Druze community in Israel faces issues related to land allocation, infrastructure, and equitable access to resources. Addressing these concerns is not only a matter of justice but a fulfilment of the Jewish value of Tzedek – righteousness. As we learn from Yitro, good leadership involves seeing the needs of all people and creating systems that serve them effectively.

This week’s Parasha inspires us to consider how we can strengthen the bonds between communities. How can we ensure that the partnership continues to thrive? Relationships require actions not only dialogue.

Today, the relationship between Jews and Druze in Israel is a relationship built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to a better future.

May we, like Moses, have the humility to listen and the courage to act. May we, like Yitro, recognise the value of wisdom wherever it may be found.

Shabbat shalom.