From The Rabbi’s Study…Shabbat, April 5, 2024/26 Adar II 5784
This is the Sabbath before the beginning of the Hebrew month of Nisan is called Shabbat HaChodesh. The additional maftir reading is chosen because of the descriptions of the paschal sacrifice of the first Passover in Egypt, as well as the rules for the preparation of the celebration of the festival.
The Torah continues with Moses instructing Aaron and his sons Nadav and Avihu concerning the offerings for atonement of sins. Nadav and Avihu bring unauthorized fire offerings of their own, and G-d punishes them with death. G-d tells Moses and Aaron which foods are permitted and forbidden to be eaten.
The Torah portion has the attainment of holiness, which has rules for the priests to keep their minds on the task of distinguishing between good and evil. One of the purposes was about the dietary laws to help individuals to strive for holiness. G-d says, “Sanctify yourselves, and be holy” (Leviticus 11:44). Also, the laws of Kashrut: Keeping kosher, dietary laws which are the fundamentals of Judaism. The saying of “ We are what we eat”, was important throughout the ages of how the Jewish people survived in the midst of a hostile world. A Jewish person’s focus is on their spiritual health, and kashrut becomes the constant reminder of Judaism, values, traditions, and special obligations of Jewish living.
An interesting point from the Torah reading is about Aaron becoming the Kohain HaGadol/High Priest and his sons the priests. Yet, shortly after this honor bestowed on Aaron, his sons Nadav and Avihu usurp their father’s position and bring a “strange offering”, which causes G-d to then kill them. The lack of respect to their father, and their attempt of taking over the priesthood went beyond the pale.
Today, one can see the disrespect to our military, law enforcement, teachers and students, people in leadership positions in various fields. This disobeying of our civil laws with little or no punishments has consequences, and many people and cities are witnessing the chaos. There are ways to get your opinions or points across in a civilized manner.
The behavior of a person reflects on their values and the manner they learned from an early age. The Torah and Judaism is a guide to living a full meaningful and spiritual life. Yes, we have rituals, High Holidays, festivals, and the State of Israel. Yes, each of us may practice Judaism differently, and yet we are One People and One Nation.
As Talmud states about the Torah, “It is a tree of life to those that hold on fast to it.”
This week marks the 180th day of the Hostages held by Hamas. May we pray that they are speedily returned to their loved one as Passover approaches.
Shabbat Shalom v’ Am Ysrael Chai,
Rabbi Helene Ainbinder
