Tzav 2023

1As this is Shabbat Hagadol we try to find a connection between the Torah reading and Pesach. A connection can be found in the opening section of the Parsha. The Torah instructs Aaron and his family regarding the “Olah” or burnt offering. The Olah has already been discussed in Parshat Vayikra. Here, the Parsha includes some more details regarding its burning. The Parsha instructs that there shall be three fires on the altar and that at least one burn in perpetuity “Tamid”. An eternal fire shall burn on the Altar and not be extinguished, ever. This fire shall remain with or without a sacrifice to be burned. We are reminded of the burning bush in Parshat Shmot, “A bush that burned and did not burn out.” It was a fire signaling the upcoming redemption. Through the fire on the Altar we are reminded of that historical redemption. This requirement remained even once the temple was built! The redemptive quality of Chodesh Nisan was symbolized by that permanent fire. Whether or not there was a Beit Hamikdash there is a time for redemption and Nisan is just that time.

2

“This is the Torah of the Olah, The Olah etc” R Acha, quoting R Chanina bar Papa, So that the Jews shall not say, “yesterday we brought sacrifices and were busy with them (studying the rules associated with the sacrifices). Now, that there are no sacrifices, shall we be continue to study the rules of the sacrifices (Seder Kadshim)? So God responded saying that if you study the sacrifices I will consider it as though you offered them. Similarly if you study the construction of the Mishkan I will consider it as though you have built the holy Mishkan!

Vayikra Rabbah 7:3 on Lev 6:2

3

“In fire was it destroyed and in fire shall it be rebuilt”

Nachem prayer, Tisha B’Av

4We are constantly rebuilding the Mishkan and the Mikdash with our studies and with our yearning for true redemption. On Seder night surrounded by family and friends we remember those who are no longer with us (this is the symbolism of the Trumat Hadeshen ceremony) and celebrate the great Egyptian redemption “As though we ourselves were redeemed”. In this way we are in fact redeemed from the troubles and worries of our day. May we always remember those who came before us and those who help lead us forward, always forward and always towards redemption.

5Good Shabbat and Chag Kasher Ve’Sameach!