Welcome to our synagogue!
Magen David Sephardic Congregation (MDSC) is a Modern Orthodox synagogue founded in 1966. Our building is ideally located to serve worshippers from Bethesda, Rockville, and Potomac (Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC).
Our distinctive Sephardic character is a source of pride for us, but membership in MDSC is not exclusive. Visitors may hear not only “Welcome” but “Bienvenue” and “Bienvenidos” – and from our many Israeli members, a hearty “Shalom”. In this diverse and vibrant environment, a biseleh Yiddish is not out of place.
A more welcoming, caring congregation you won’t find. We think our energy and devotion will inspire you to share in our prayer services and learning sessions.
We invite people of all levels of Jewish knowledge and awareness to explore their personal growth here, supported by others in this warm, outgoing community. Magen David is the go-to gathering place for Jews of all ages, backgrounds, and perceptions.
We hope you will explore this website to learn about the life of our community and the breadth of our mission. If you're not already on our mailing list, it’s easy to sign up. Just send a request to our executive director, Andrea Choobineh, at office@magendavidsephardic.org.
Parashat HaShavua Mishpatim Exodus 21:1 - 24:18
Following the revelation at Sinai, HaShem gives a series of laws to Israelites. These include laws regarding the indentured servant; penalties for murder, kidnapping, assault, and theft; civil laws regarding redress of damages and loans; the responsibilities of the four guardians; and rules for the conduct of justice in courts of law.
God’s laws warn against mistreatment of foreigners, outline the observance of festivals, and list the agricultural gifts to be brought to the Temple. There is a prohibition against cooking meat with milk. The mitzvah of prayer is described.
The parashah contains a listing of 53 mitzvot – 23 imperative commands and 30 prohibitions.
HaShem promises to bring the people to the Holy Land, warning them to resist the pagan ways of its current inhabitants. The people respond, “We will do and we will hear all that G-d commands.”
Leaving Aaron and Hur in charge of the Israelite camp, Moses ascends Mount Sinai and remains there for 40 days and 40 nights to receive the Torah from HaShem.
Yemenite Night
With over 200 attendees, MDSC's Yemenite Night was a rousing success! Guests enjoyed food, film, music and more, celebrating Jewish life and history in Yemen. Keep an eye out for more cultural celebrations in the coming months.
