Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

This week, we begin to read the book of Vayikra. To the modern ear, it is not as intriguing as the first two books of the Torah which are filled with narratives about our founding ancestors and the epic of going from bondage to freedom and experiencing God's presence at Sinai. Conversely, the first several chapters of Vayikra deal with different categories of sacrifices, many of which become the categories for different prayers, such as offerings for sin, guilt, gratitude, peace, and spiritual elevation.

The Sages of the Talmud, living soon after the destruction of the second Temple, teach us that there was once a time when the third book of the Torah was the first book taught to young children. Sacrifices are pure, and little children are pure. Let those who are pure occupy themselves with matters of purity, say the Sages. This ancient comment may indeed harken back to a time when the relationship of Jews to the ancient Temple ritual was more relevant, or the ancient comment may have reflected an aspiration to return to the glory and nostalgia of what once was and which was now taken away. In addition, while ritual sacrifices may have become inoperative, the idea of making personal sacrifice for one's faith, heritage, and values is always applicable.

We begin to read Vayikra this week with its connection to Shabbat Zachor - the Sabbath on which we remember the evil of Amalek. The third book of the Torah begins as we prepare for Purim and slowly transition to the Passover season. Perhaps the best time of year to reinforce young children with their Jewish identities is the Purim-Pesach season which starts at the same time we begin the book of Vayikra.

Children of all ages - Welcome to Vayikra and Purim in the coming week.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Howard Morrison