Parashat Mishpatim – Opening Questions

• What is the relationship between the Torah and other Ancient Near Eastern Law Codes?
• To whom does the phrase "וְלֹא יִהְיֶה אָסוֹן" refer and how does this affect one's understanding of the case of the pregnant bystander?
• What is the meaning of "עַיִן תַּחַת עַיִן"? Does the Torah promote measure for measure physical punishment?
• What is the purpose of the Shemittah year?