Summary: Very similar to last week’s parasha, this portion reviews the instructions given to the priests on how to prepare the sacrifices in the Temple. The end of the portion focuses upon the ordination and consecration of both the altar and the priests.
Lesson: Another name for the Book of Leviticus is “Torat Hakohanim – the Torah of the Priests”. The primary focus of the Book of Leviticus is the life of the Priests and their service in the Temple. Yet the Torah also teaches that the entire Jewish people are meant to be like priests, that each one of us has the potential to live a life of holiness. Our portion this week can guide us as we strive to create holiness in our lives and in our world.
The Kohanim in the ancient Temple were installed in an elaborate ceremony. They purified themselves, they wore special clothing and then were anointed with special oil so they could offer a special sacrifice on the altar. And then…after the sacrifice was offered…” Moses took blood from the ram and placed it on Aaron’s right ear, on the thumb of his right hand, and on the big toe of his right foot.” Moses then repeated the same ritual for each of Aaron’s sons. What a strange ritual! Why blood and why on the right thumb, toe and ear?
Philo, an ancient commentator wrote that “the fully consecrated must be pure in words and actions and in life; for words are judged by hearing, the hand is the symbol of action, and the foot, of the pilgrimage of life.” Philo finds meaning in each of the three body parts in terms of how we use them.
Ear, hand, and foot are symbolic of our entire body. Through ears our words are heard, reminding us that our words, what we say, make a difference. Through our hands we touch others. Our actions are important and make a huge impact in our world. And our feet, remind us that we can’t just talk about holiness, we must pursue a life of holiness. Our portion teaches us that with our ears, our hands, and our feet, we, like the Priests of old, have a responsibility to suffuse our words, our actions and our lives with purpose and meaning.