By Emmanuel Sorek
Dvar Torah Editor
Drawings by Samuel Benzaquen and Daniel Lebovitz
This week’s Parasha marks the beginning of the third book of the Torah, Sefer Vayikra, which primarily delves into the details of korbanot, or offerings, their recipients, and the laws surrounding them. The parasha opens with Hashem summoning Moshe and stating:
דַּבֵּ֞ר אֶל־בְּנֵ֤י יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ וְאָמַרְתָּ֣ אֲלֵהֶ֔ם אָדָ֗ם כִּֽי־יַקְרִ֥יב מִכֶּ֛ם קׇרְבָּ֖ן לַֽה׳ מִן־הַבְּהֵמָ֗ה מִן־הַבָּקָר֙ וּמִן־הַצֹּ֔אן תַּקְרִ֖יבוּ אֶת־קׇרְבַּנְכֶֽם׃
“Speak to the Jewish people, and say to them: When any of you presents an offering of cattle to Hashem, You shall choose your offering from the herd or from the flock.”
Rashi poses a question regarding Hashem's choice of the word "adam" (man). Throughout the parasha and the rest of the sefer, the Torah typically uses the terms "nefesh" (person) or "ish" (man) when referring to individuals. So why does Hashem begin discussing offerings with the term "adam"?
Rashi provides an insightful explanation: Adam, the first human created by Hashem, inhabited a world crafted specifically for him and Chava (Eve). In the preceding five days of creation, everything—whether it be the sun in the sky, the water in the ocean, the earth's creatures, or the fruit bearing trees--- was all created with Adam in mind. Consequently, everything belonged to him. Thus, when Adam offered a korban to Hashem, it was from his own possessions, as everything in existence was at his disposal. Similarly, Hashem instructs Bnei Israel that any offering they present must rightfully belong to them, just as it did to Adam. Hence, an offering obtained through theft would not be acceptable. This underscores the importance of honesty in our relationship with Hashem. While two offered animals may appear identical, the sincerity behind the offering speaks volumes about our reverence for our connection with Hashem. Just as any healthy relationship is founded on trust, our bond with Hashem should likewise be built on honesty.
As we approach the joyous holiday of Purim, we are reminded of our obligation to fulfill various mitzvot, including Mishloach Manot (sending portions of food), Matanot Laevyonim (gifts to the needy), making a Mishte, and reading the Megillah. Just as with korbanot, our acts on Purim must be genuine and sincere. We cannot fulfill the mitzvah of Mishloach Manot by offering stolen goods, nor should we fulfill Matanot Laevyonim using money obtained unlawfully. Moreover, these mitzvot primarily involve interactions between ourselves and others (bein Adam lechavero). Purim thus presents an opportunity to strengthen our relationships and assist those in need. By integrating the lessons from our parasha with the spirit of Purim, we can make this chag truly meaningful—a time to forge deeper, more honest connections with both Hashem and those around us.
Shabbat Shalom and Purim Sameach!
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