Time to Make Amends-Parshas Vayikra
What is the theme of parshas Vayikra? That might seem like a “no-brainer” of a question. After all, from even a cursory glance it is hard not to notice the extensive treatment of korbanos (offerings), in all of their various forms, contained therein. A “Clean” Sacrifice Actually, while korbanos does seem to be the prevailing theme, a closer look reveals yet another thread. The opening directive regarding the bringing of offerings [...]
Coin of Fire: An Elucidation of the Machtzis Hashekel (Half-Shekel)-Parshas Pekudei
This is the first in a series of Shabbosos that garner a specially designated Torah reading (in addition to the standard weekly parshah). The section detailing the mitzvah of the machtzis hashekel contribution is read this week. The relevance of this particular section to the current time period is apparent from the Mishnah in Shekalim (1:1): בְּאֶחָד בַּאֲדָר מַשְׁמִיעִין עַל הַשְּׁקָלִים. “On the first of Adar, an announcement was made [...]
The Mikdash (Sanctuary) – A Lively Place-Parshas Vayakhel
Extra Words In preparation for the building of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), an appeal was made to B’nei Yisrael to donate the necessary materials (gold, silver, etc.) from which the portable sanctuary would be fashioned. The response was so generous and overwhelming that a call was issued to desist from any further donations. Referring to the outpouring of plenty, the passuk in this week’s parshah states: וְהַמְּלָאכָה הָיְתָה דַיָּם... וְהוֹתֵר. “And the task (of [...]
