Bat Kol International, Weekly Torah Nuggets
Parashat Aharei Mot-Kedoshim | Leviticus 16:1 – 20:27
The Lord spoke to Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron… the Lord said to Moses“ (Lev 16:1-2).
“The Lord said to Moses…” begins a description of the purification rituals worship in the Holy Place. It is very detailed & elaborate. What can be derived from the scripture and other readings describes actions that show respect.
In the first portion, laying out the rules for the ritual of sacrifice, there is a description of the processes to ensure that absolute cleanliness is achieved. Our behaviour with those around a person requiring absolute cleanliness … whether the physical rules of a sacrifice or the rules regarding relationships with other people.
I have understood from this that there is a level of supreme respect in either circumstance. The Temple ritual directs absolute cleanliness and order even though sacrifices are being made. They have to be done in a way ensuring that there is no waste or contamination. The human interactions in the second portion demand the same thing. Very detailed instructions regarding associations but it comes down to a respect for others in relationships.
Reflection:
The first part of the reading is about ritual. If we consider the underlying meaning we find a more useful message. Likewise, the ‘hidden’ message of the latter portion can teach us about care & respect.
A. Sandra Clark, Brussels, Ontario, Canada
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“Since the spiritual patrimony common to Christians and Jews is thus so great, this sacred synod wants to foster and recommend that mutual understanding and respect which is the fruit, above all, of biblical and theological studies.”
Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non-Christian Religions: Nostra Aetate, No. 4