| Vayikra: The Soul of Sacrifice |
| Animal sacrifice occupies a central place in the Torah, yet its origins and purpose are greatly misunderstood. Although Jewish liturgy is re replete with expressions of longing for the reinstitution of the avodah (sacrificial services) in the Temple, it seems puzzling that HaShem (G-d), infinite and eternal, should demand the sacrifice of animals as a fundamental part of worship. In unlocking the secrets of this mystery, we will examine the intrinsic value of the animal offering, the transformation it effects upon its owner and how the concept of the avodah likewise occupies an essential role within each individual, specifically in prayer. |
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| Tzav: What Makes it So Great? |
| This week’s parshah (Torah portion) is almost always read on the Shabbat preceding Passover. Traditionally, this Shabbat is called “Shabbat HaGadol-the Great Shabbat.” What is so great about it? A Midrashic story of a miraculous civil war waged by firstborn Egyptians becomes the focal point of the halachic explanation, qualifying this Shabbat as “great.” |
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| Shemini: Baby Steps, Adult Thinking |
| Parshat Shemini describes an unusual incident, in which Aharon apparently disobeys Moshe’s (Moses’) instructions, following the death of Aharon’s sons. Aharon’s defense indicates that his attitude towards life is radically different from Moshe’s perspective. The incident and its aftermath make it clear why the Jewish people needed both Moshe and Aharon to lead them out of Egypt and guide them through the desert, and why we still need them today. |
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| Tazria-Metzorah: More Than Skin Deep |
| A little known detail about life in the wilderness was the periodic affliction of a leprosy called tzora’at. Was this occurrence simply another oddity of a biblical era, in the same category as plagues, red heifers and a talking donkey? Or is it a glimpse into a lifestyle in a pristinely spiritual environment, where the slightest misdemeanor causes a breakout-not of acne-but of leprosy? We will also investigate out tzora’at in the broader context of divine retribution. |
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| Acharei-Kedoshim: Aspire But Don't Retire |
| The story surrounding the sudden death of Aaron’s sons was first mentioned in last week’s parshah (Torah portion). It is repeated in our portion before discussing the long order of the Yom Kippur services in the Beit Hamikdash. What was the reason for their death? What is the connection to Yom Kippur? Analyzing this story gives light to the unique purpose of life on this world and how even while bound to life’s limitations, one can still fulfill the burning desire of the soul to be attached to its creator. |
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| Emor: Counting Forward |
| The Torah portion of Emor speaks of the mitzvah to count the days between Passover and Shavuot. This period of 49 days is called Sefirat HaOmer-the counting of the Omer. What is the significance of this mitzvah and its spiritual application? This class will discuss the idea of counting as a preparation to receive the Torah. |
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| Behar-Bechukotai: More Than Just Love |
| G-d took us out of Egypt! Is that the end to slavery? No, says the Torah, He took us out in order for us to serve Him. What does it mean to be a servant of G-d? What is our "working" relationship with G-d? Does He owe us anything, or is it a one-sided relationship? This discussion will lead us to understand the necessity of fear and reverence in order to have a healthy relationship with the Divine. |
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