WEEKLY TORAH
WEEKLY TORAH
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PARSHAT SHEMINI
This Shabbat we bless the new month of Iyar which begins on Monday April 28 and Tuesday. May it bring to us the blessings of Hashem.
At the beginning of our Parshah we find Moshe encouraging his brother Aharon to come near to the Mizbayach (Altar) and begin his service as the Kohain Gadol (High Priest), (Vayikra 9:7).
Rashi comments that Aharon was embarrassed to do so and Moshe says, "It is for this that you have been chosen."
Our sages elaborate on what is meant by the words: "It is for this." It is for this, the very fact that Aharon is embarrassed and considers himself unworthy, that he was chosen; his humility is what makes him worthy.
The Kosher Laws are also introduced in Parshat Shemini and we learn that to be Kosher, an animal needs two characteristics: a completely split hoof and chewing the cud. Those animals that do not, or have just one sign are not Kosher (Vayikra 11:1-8).
Why has the pig become the symbol of non-kosher? There are many animals that have neither sign, at least the pig has a split hoof! Our sages answer that the pig presents his split hoof as though he is kosher but on the inside he is indeed treif. Perhaps, there is a message here for us: It's not enough to appear to be kosher, rather one's mode of living should reflect what's in one's heart and mind.
Kol Tov! Our best to you...it's all good. Shabbat Shalom, CM
CHADISH FORUM - PLEASE TELL US
One of the non-kosher birds mentioned this week is the Chassidah. With a such great name and its reputation for kindness, why wouldn't this bird be kosher?
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