Tag: Weekly Reading

drash Vayikra 5781

parashas Vayikra 5781

parashas Vayikra (Leviticus 1:1 – 5:26) 5781

The Mishkan (portable sanctuary in the wilderness) was established. All of the accoutrements, necessary for avodah (service) were in place – the outer mizbeach, where the offerings would be made in the courtyard; the inner mizbeach, where incense was offered; also, where the showbread table, and the menorah were located. These were all placed outside of the paroches (curtain) that separated from the Kadosh Kadoshim, where the Ark rested with the two golden cherubim on its cover (kaporah).

“Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of H’Shem filled the tabernacle” (Exodus 40:34, JPS 1917 Tanach). Moses was unable to enter, because of the settling of the Cloud of Glory over the Miskan (Tabernacle). Yet, H’Shem called to Moshe, from within the Sanctuary. “Then he heard the Voice speaking unto him from above the ark-cover that was upon the ark of the testimony, from between the two cherubim; and He spoke unto him.” (Numbers 7:89, JPS).

“H’Shem called unto Moses, and spoke unto him out of the tent of meeting, saying: Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: When any man of you bringeth an offering unto H’Shem”

– Leviticus 1:1-2 , JPS 1917 Tanach

Maimonides explains that the institution of the korbanot (offerings) was necessary, because the Israelites were used to the mode of worship of the times. The difference between the offerings of the nations, and those of Israel, was that Israel’s offerings were to be made only to the One True G-d. Even so, the korbanot (offerings) were meant to be a transitional step towards the ultimate mode of avodah (worship) – prayer.

For, “it is, namely, impossible to go suddenly from one extreme to the other: it is therefore according to the nature of man impossible for him suddenly to discontinue everything to which he has been accustomed” (Maimonides, guide for the Perplexed, Part 3, Ch. 32, wikipedia.com). To have gone directly to the avodah (service) of the heart, in other words, “heartfelt prayer,” after leaving Egypt would have been an impossibility.

shiur Vayikra 5781

B”H

Shiur for parashas Vayikra 5781

“When any man of you bringeth an offering unto the L-RD.”

– Leviticus 1:2, JPS 1917 Tanach

The Hebrew word for offering is korban. The shoresh (root word) of korban is KRV, meaning “to draw near.” Therefore, the act of bringing an offering has the connotation of drawing near to H’Shem. According to Akeidas Yitzchak, the olah offering, in particular, represents prayer from the heart, because the olah completely ascends to H’Shem. Therefore, in like manner that the entire animal brought as an olah offering is consumed on the mizbeach (altar), so too, will our prayers of the heart ascend to G-d.

Interestingly enough, the name associated with the korbanot is H’Shem (YHVH), the name that denotes H’Shem’s Attribute of Mercy. Since the korban is not associated with the name, Elokim that represents the Attribute of Justice, the implication is that an offering permits us to draw near to H’Shem, because of His mercy towards us: for, although the world was first created with the Attribute of Justice, denoted by the name Elokim (the name of G-d that first appears in the Creation narrative), later, the name H’Shem (YHVH) appears, because the world could not survive without Mercy (see Rashi, Genesis 1:1).

H’Shem’s Attribute of mercy makes an allowance for reconciliation through atonement, by way of a korban. The first offering was made for mankind by H’Shem, for the sake of Adam and Chava, when they disobeyed Him and ate from the Tree of Good and Evil. Furthermore, He covered them with clothes derived from the offering (see Genesis 3:21). That an offering was indeed made is alluded to by a particular commentary that speaks of the mate of Leviathan being slayed by G-d, in order to clothe Adam and Chava (Chizkuni, R. Bachya, commentary on Genesis 3:21).

Today, in our own lives, without the “covering” of our sins by way of atonement through our own heartfelt repentance, we are left without protection from the harsh winds of judgment. We may be chastised by G-d, until we are brought back to ourselves, and our plight in this world. What do we have to bring to H’Shem, except for ourselves? As Pesach approaches, let us also clean house, taking stock of our souls, and ridding ourselves of the accumulation of chometz (sin) in our lives. Nissan is reckoned as the first of the months on the Hebrew calendar; an opportune time to renew our sense of commitment to H’Shem. Shabbat shalom.

dvar Vayikra 5781

parashas Vayikra 5781

B”H

 d’var for parashas Vayikra 5781

“When any man of you bringeth an offering unto the L-RD.”

– Leviticus 2:2, JPS 1917 Tanach

The completion of the Mishkan was followed by the manifestation of H’Shem’s presence, in the form of a cloud that filled the Tabernacle, and prevented Moshe from entering. Then H’Shem calls (vayikra) to Moshe from the Ohel Moed (Tent of Meeting); He proceeds with instructing Moshe to speak to B’nei Yisrael, concerning the bringing of a korban (offering). The Hebrew word, “korban” is derived from the shoresh (root word) KRV, meaning to draw near. This implies that the offerer draws near to H’Shem through the bringing of an offering.

The passage continues by describing five general types of offerings, beginning with the olah. The olah represents spiritual elevation, because the entire offering is burnt on the mizbeach (altar), sending the smoke to shomayim (heaven). The word olah is connected to the word aliyah, meaning to ascend. Next, the meal offerings are mentioned: “And when any one bringeth a meal-offering unto H’Shem” (Leviticus 2:1, JPS). Literally, the verse reads, “when a soul brings a meal offering.” This is because a poor person who brings a meal offering, it is as if he offers up his own soul” (Rashi).

Next, the Torah discusses shloshamim (peace offerings), meant to reconcile the offerer to G-d and man. After this, the chatas (sin offering), and the asham (guilt offering) are mentioned. Both of these were brought specifically to atone for sin. Yet, the olah, burnt offering could also be made on a voluntary basis to atone for impure thoughts.  All of these offerings give us an indication of what we need to be concerned about in our relationship to H’Shem.

Today, there are no offerings to bring, except for our prayers. When we confess our sins, from a place within ourselves, denoting a sincere heartfelt recognition of the gravity of our aveiros (sins), we may ascribe to the words of the psalmist, “The sacrifices of G-d are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O G-d, Thou wilt not despise” (Psalm 51:19, JPS 1917).

motzei Shabbos: Tapestry of Life

Nissan 1, 5781

Our thoughts may be woven together, in order to form a tapestry in this life. The nature of our thoughts will determine the quality of the tapestry. In regard to the paroches (partition) that separated between the area where the Ark was kept and the less holy area of the Mikdash (sanctuary), consider the variety of materials used, “blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen; with cherubim the work of the skilful workman shall it be made” (26:31, JPS 1917 Tanach).

According to the Talmud, the craftsmen “embroidered the place where they had designed” (Yoma 72b). Thus, first a pattern was made on the material, then they embroidered the design. Our thoughts surface first in our mind; these thoughts may be likened to a pattern that is based upon our soul; therefore, the design that is eventually woven in our lives is a reflection of who we are.

Yet, are personalities may often influence the overall design, either positively or negatively, dependent on what kind of other thoughts occupy our minds. If only the true light of the soul could shine through, irrespective of our own limiting factors, we would be able to create a beautiful tapestry in our lives, unimpeded by our faults, character defects, and aveiros (sins).

The soul is constructed, inasmuch that our lower nature may interfere with our higher aspirations; the challenges in our lives to succeed, despite our yetzer hara (evil inclination) makes all the difference. In Freudian terms, our life giving side, eros is opposed by thanatos. Therefore, like skilled crafts persons, we need to discern positive from negative, right from wrong, and light from darkness.

On an additional note, in regard to our thoughts, the tapestry we weave separates to some degree, between our inner sanctuary (the depths of our mind), and the persona we present to the world. Only behind the paraoches (partition) of our soul, are we intimately connected to H’Shem, in like manner that the Ark of the Covenant rested within the Kadosh Kadoshim (Holy of Holies).

drash – Avodah: The Inner Work

“Six days shall work be done, but on the seventh day there shall be to you a holy day, a sabbath of solemn rest to the L-RD.”

– Exodus 35:2, JPS 1917 Tanach

Before giving the commandment to B’nei Yisrael, concerning the terumah (offerings) that are to be brought – silver, gold, and various materials for the building of the Mishkan – a free will offering from the heart of each and every individual – H’Shem instructs Moshe to remind the B’nei Yisrael about Shabbat. The juxtaposition of the commandment to observe Shabbos, with the commandment, concerning the construction of the Mishkan is significant. The significance is that as holy as the project of the Mishkan is, the building of the Mishkan does not supersede the sanctity of Shabbos.

Commentary further explains that acknowledgment of H’Shem, who created the world in six days, and rested on the seventh day, is a greater imperative than the services performed in the Mishkan. Not that belief precludes service; rather, that belief is primary. This is reflected in the teaching, that the first commandment encompasses the belief in H’Shem that is incumbent upon us, before we can accept His commandments as authoritative. That is, in effect, the essence of what is truly necessary: first, a belief in the existence of G-d; then, a desire to draw near to Him through our avodah (service).

Although the Mishkan was the officially prescribed way to serve H’Shem, through the bringing of offerings, today the main way to do so is through the service of the heart, i.e., prayer. And, this may be performed on a communal basis, as well as a personal level. Often, the gathering together at a place of worship is emphasized in the lives of many, while the more personal aspects of heartfelt prayer in one’s own words, within the confines of one’s own home is neglected. This is an unfortunate reality that underscores the nature of service in modern times, where many focus more on community than an actual heartfelt connection to H’Shem.

Both communal and personal prayer are important; yet, it is advisable to strengthen ourselves in regard to the inner dimension of our soul. Moreover, whether we attend communal prayer worship or not, our service towards H’Shem should still take into consideration the sanctity of Shabbos: this is an ideal time to set aside for personal reflection, prayer, and strengthening our connection to H’Shem.

parashas Vayakhel-Pekudei 5781

shiur – Census Sense

parashas Vayakhel-Pekudei 5781

B”H

shiur for parashas Vayakhel-Pekudei 5781

 “‘When thou takest the sum of the children of Israel, according to their number, then shall they give every man a ransom for his soul unto the L-RD.’”

– Exodus 30:12, JPS 1917 Tanach

A unique perspective on the census taken of B’nei Yisrael takes into consideration how the silver from the census – a half shekel from every man – was actually used in the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Consider the amount of silver that was taken: “And the silver of them that were numbered of the congregation was a hundred talents, and a thousand seven hundred and three-score and fifteen shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary” (Exodus 38:25, JPS 1917 Tanach).

The one hundred talents of silver was used for ninety-six sockets at the base of the planks that served to make the walls of the Mishkan, plus four sockets for the partition screen (see scripture). The remaining silver amounted to less than a talent; this was also used to build the mishkan. The exact amount needed was the exact amount collected from B’nei Yisrael when the census had previously been taken. Ohr HaChaim comments that this was a miracle.

Additionally, the census itself is referred to as an atonement for the souls of B’nei Yisrael. Commentary explains that the half shekels that were taken from each individual served as atonement for their souls, specifically for the sin of the golden calf.

Sforno draws another insight, noting that the nature of a census itself requires an atonement for the souls of the individuals counted. He explains that the mentioning of a head count of people is an oblique reminder of man’s sin, i.e., his guilt (Sforno on 30:12, sefaria.org). In his estimation, humans change from day to day, in regard to their moral status. Therefore, they are not the same when counted each time; thus, they are also scrutinized when counted.

It is as if they are scrutinized by the Almighty Himself, at the time of a census, and may fall short of His standard, namely, the commandments, at the time of counting. Therefore, the half shekel served as an atonement for their moral deficiencies at the time of scrutiny.

Inasmuch that these half shekels were used to build the mishkan, another insight can be drawn, in regard to the importance of atonement. The Mishkan served as a dwelling place for H’Shem; yet, its purpose emphasized a central structure where offerings for atonement would be made on behalf of B’nei Yisrael. For aside from the sin of the golden calf, atonement for sins committed on an individual level is also necessary, for a variety of infractions. Additionally, we should scrutinize ourselves, seeking forgiveness even on a daily basis.

May it be H’Shem’s will that when we are scrutinized, we will be judged favorably.

May His attribute of mercy override His attribute of judgment.

d’var – The Wise Craftsman

B”H

d’var for Vayakhel-Pekudei 5781

 “And He hath filled him with the spirit of G-d, in wisdom, in understanding, and in all manner of workmanship.” – Exodus 35:31 JPS, 1917 Tanach

Moshe assembled B’nei Yisrael, reiterating what H’Shem had commanded to him, while on Mount Sinai, to speak to them that they bring an offering – willingly from the heart – to contribute materials to build the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Bezalel is chosen by H’Shem to oversee the entire project, that would amount to a great artistic endeavor; moreover, Bezalel is endowed by H’Shem with the Spirit of G-d (Ruach Elokim), in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge” (Exodus 35:31).

The Talmud notes, in Berachos 55a, that these same qualities were used by H’Shem to create the Heavens and Earth, as is found in Mishlei (Proverbs 3:19-20). This insightful comparison points towards the idea that the Mishkan (Tabernacle) itself is a reflection of Heaven on Earth. Inasmuch that H’Shem’s Presence (the Shechinah) dwelt in the Mishkan between the two golden Cherubim on the cover of the Ark of the Covenant, from where H’Shem spoke to Moshe, the Mishkan encapsulated a smaller rendering of H’Shem’s Glory in Shomayim (Heaven), where, according to the vision of the prophet Ezekiel (see Ezekiel 10:1), H’Shem is surrounded by Cherubim.

In consideration of the designation of the Mishkan as a place where the Shechinah would dwell, it is all the more understandable why its master craftsman was endowed with the same qualities that H’Shem used to create the Heavens and Earth: a microcosm of the whole (according to Akeidut Yitzchak), the Mishkan required more than artistic capabilities; rather, it called for divine intuition, in regard to making patterns found in the Heavenly Realm. Incidentally, that may be the reason that the most-used color of various components of the Mishkan was techiles (a specific hue of blue), denoting a similarity to “the sea that resembles Heaven, and  Heaven resembles the Throne of Glory,” as mentioned in the Talmud, tractate Menachos 43a, based on Exodus 1:24, and Ezekiel 1:26.

“The L-RD by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding He established the heavens. By His knowledge the depths were broken up, and the skies drop down the dew.”

 – Proverbs 3:19-20, JPS 1917 Tanach

motzei Shabbos: Ki Tisa 5781

B”H

Motzei Shabbos: parashas KI Tisa – Wholeness

“This is what everyone who is entered in the records shall pay: a half-shekel by the sanctuary weight—twenty gerahs to the shekel—a half-shekel as an offering to the L-RD.” – Exodus 30:13

The census characterizes a concept, in regard to identity, inasmuch that a half shekel denotes a lack, in and of itself, since it is only half of the whole; thus, each Israelite in giving a half shekel in order to be included in the census taken for K’lal Yisrael, must needs to acknowledge his or her deficiencies. Only by making up for the difference between our real self, and our ideal self, can we become whole. In this specific case, regarding the census, as an atonement for the sin of the golden calf, the half shekel atones for the decreased spiritual level of the soul that occurred as a result of this sin.

R’Bachya speaks of the “dual-duty of the Jew to look after both his body and his soul,” thus implying the need to be aware of both spiritual as well as material needs; furthermore, within the context of the half shekel offered as an atonement for the individual souls of Israel, as recompense for the transgression of the eigel – golden calf – the half shekel represents the need to make up the difference in what each soul spiritually lacked at the time of that debacle. In fact, there was an overindulgence of material pleasures committed along with the idolatry.

Only three thousand were executed as those who were brazen enough not to stand down from their revely, when Moses returned; yet, all 600,000 souls, were guilty, inasmuch that they did not attempt to prevent the idolatry. This is akin to the bystander of evil, who permits bad things to happen, not exactly through participation of that evil; rather, through not speaking out against the evil. And, so all the people needed to make an atonement for the souls, that had become deficient on a spiritual level; having been complicit, their spiritual status was decreased, and could only be elevated again through the census –  tisa es rosh (to lift up the head), or elevate the soul.

parashas Ki Tisa 5781 – Mesiras Nefesh

“Yet now, if Thou wilt forgive their sin; and if not, blot me, I pray Thee, out of Thy book which Thou hast written.’” – Exodus 32:32, JPS 1917 Tanach

“Moses refers to the ‘Book of life’ in which every human being is inscribed on Rosh Hashanah if he was found deserving on the basis of his past record.” – Chizkuni on Exodus 32:32; sefaria.org

After the debacle of the golden calf, Moses pleaded with H’Shem on behalf of B’nei yisrael, saying, “Alas, this people is guilty of a great sin in making for themselves a god of gold” (32:31, JPS). In asking of H’Shem to forgive the sin of the people, Moses offers to have his name written out of the Book of Life. This is an unmistakable gesture of mesiras hanefesh (self-sacrifice), that Moshe offers on behalf of B’nei Yisrael. Yet, G-d declines the offer, stating in what appears to be an impromptu decree for the ages: “He who has sinned against Me, him only will I erase from My record” (Exodus 32:33, JPS).

Nevertheless, the immediate punishment, concerning H’Shem’s intent to destroy this generation, and start over again with Moses had already been averted through Moshe’s prayer. Now, forgiveness does not seem to be sanctioned; rather, a newly mentioned punishment is delayed, “when I make an accounting, I will bring them to account for their sins.” (Exodus 33:34, JPS). After this statement, the Torah records that a plague is sent amongst the people. So, the question remains, when will H’Shem make an accounting, thereby bringing them to account for their sins? The question continues to ring, like a bell of proclamation.

parashas Ki Tisa 5781

shiur Ki Tisa 5781 – Incense and Avodah

parashas Ki Tisa 5781
parashas podcast

B”H

shiur for parashas Ki Tisa 5781

“H’Shem said to Moses: Take for yourself – spices – stacte, onycha, and galbanum – spices and pure frankincense.”  – Exodus 30:34

The incense was offered every day in the morning, and in the afternoon.  The incense fragrance connotes the understanding that we are to serve G-d in a pleasing manner; inasmuch that we are His servants, it is our responsibility to serve Him.  Yet, He would like us to develop the inward desire to serve Him.  This is reflected in the two ways of obeying His commandments – out of fear, and out of love.

To observe His commandments out of fear, demands acknowledgment of H’Shem as “the L-rd thy G-d who brought you out of the land of Egypt” (Exodus 20:2).  In and of itself, this is the first commandment, inasmuch that we are obligated to acknowledge H’Shem as sovereign; once we accept His authority, then the commandments follow as authorative statements; i.e., divine decrees (Baal Halachos Gedolos).  

Yet, some of us are still plagued by our own personal Mitzraim (Egypt): our limitations that prevent us from excelling in our service (avodah) to H’Shem. Others are floundering along the way, in danger of being overcome by Amalek (symbolic of doubt), underappreciating the miracles that H’Shem has done for us, thereby permitting our desire for Him to “cool” down. On Purim, we recall the hidden miracle – how we were rescued from Haman, a descendent of Agag, an Amelekite; and, how we were victorious against the Amalekites who rose up against us within the 127 provinces of King Ahasueros.

Yet, do we recognize the miracles every day in our own lives?  The potential for us to experience His shefa (everflowing grace) is always offered to us when we look towards Him in our struggles.  We should be thankful to Him for these blessings.  Additionally, we should praise Him every day, for He has given us the breath of life; each and every day is an opportunity to lift our voices to Him in appreciation, thanking Him for all that He has given us. 

Lifting up our hearts to Him will help us to develop ahavah (love) for Him. In serving Him out of love, we are commanded to love him with an undivided heart (Sifrei), as is written, “thou shalt love H’Shem thy G-d with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might” (Deuteronomy 6:5).  Moreover, Maimonides writes, “Once a person loves G-d appropriately, he will fulfill the commandments out of love” (Hilchut Teshuva 10:2).

Yet, both love and fear are necessary, like the wings of an eagle; for without fear (awe, reverence, respect), there is not the proper attitude conveyed towards Him.  Without love, we may not be able to fly towards Him, higher and higher on our journey; yet, we continue climbing, as it is, for we will reach Him with dveykus: constant clinging to His Essence.