The Sidra of Tzav is addressed to the KOHANIM with the instructions to them how to prepare and offer up the sacrifices on behalf of the nation and also on behalf of individuals. According to a famous interpretation by Rashi, the word Tzav, which means ‘command’, denotes encouragement to perform it with urgency and […]
During Sukkot, we read the Scroll of Kohelet, which is one of the five scrolls, to be found in the third Biblical section which is called ‘Writings’. In Hebrew the section is called Ketuvim. The Hebrew word for the Bible is Tanach, which is an abbreviation for Torah, Neviim, the prophets, and Ketuvim. The section […]
The name of the Sidra means “you will command”. This most unusual beginning of a Sidra has attracted rabbinic comment. In particular, our rabbis have noted the complete absence of Moses name from this Sidra. Since this is the only Sidra which does not mention his name, there must be a reason. Three reasons have […]
The Book of Vayikra is devoted almost entirely to the laws of the sacrifices and the conduct of the priests who served in the sanctuary. For this reason our ancient rabbis called the book TORAT KOHANIM and it is this name that became known in the Greek speaking world and in other European languages. […]
The Sidra of Vayakhel begins with the statement that Moses assembled the whole nation together, which included the women and children. It was a rare assembly which was necessary after the grave crisis of the building of the golden calf and Moses’ smashing of the tablets. It was most encouraging that despite everything […]