Vayikra 2020
Isaac’s Parsha Corner · 2020
Messages from the Sacrifices
Having completed building the Mishkan the Torah describes proper use of that space. “When a person from among you comes forth to offer a “Kurban” (animal sacrifice) to Hashem, that person shall bring either cattle (cows or bulls) or flock (sheep or goats).” (Leviticus 1:2). The very first pasuk describing the Avodah (service) in the Mishkan is describing a person who wishes to become close to Hashem. The word “Kurban” means the method of becoming close, from the route word “Karev”, to come close. How does one come close to Hashem? In those days it was animal sacrifice. That was the norm in the chumash all the way back to the very first sacrifice in the Kayin and Hevel story. I’m pretty comfortable suggesting that in our day the inspiration to come close to Hashem would not result in a desire to bring animal sacrifices. However there are many interesting parallels between the animal sacrifices and the 20th century Avodah which is often but not exclusively in prayer.
The first animal sacrifice in Vayikra is the “Olaht Nedava” a voluntary burnt offering. The entire animal except for the skin is burned on the altar. This particular sacrifice is brought primarily to atone for failure to perform a particular positive commandment. The term Olah means to go up. The offering reflects the individual sense of regret for failing to achieve his or her spiritual potential. The sinner must confess. “I have failed to perform such and such mitzvah. I failed myself. This sacrifice marks my commitment to do better. I am consumed by my need to become close to Hashem and have brought a sacrifice.” Sometimes our biggest sin is our failure to maximize our own potential. We fail to be the best we can be. Obstacles are often self doubt or just plain sloth. When we finally realize that we can do better, that’s when we bring an Olah!
The “Olah” sacrifice differs from the “Shlamim” (peace or whole offering). The Shlamim sacrifice is eaten by its owner (and family and friends) and shared with the Kohen. Only a small portion is placed on the altar. This sacrifice is designed to provide a holy outlet for the desire to celebrate life. The Jew celebrates life by eating from the table of the Almighty, the Shulchan Gavoah. The Jew who brings the Olah is introspective and regretful. The one who brings the Shlamim is expansive and thankful. In this context there are occasions in our lives that we are so thankful we are virtually bursting with Joy. Those are times of Shlamim.
Both of these sacrifices are private, as opposed to the Tamid which was a communal sacrifice. The Avodah today is prayer. Unfortunately our Avodah is exclusively private as long as we remain in quarantine. Vayikra offers us a glimpse into some of the spiritual opportunities available through private prayer. Let us take these lessons to heart and keep praying.
Isaac