MIDRASH INSIGHTS:
As opposed to Parsha Vayikra which concerns the sacrifices which are relevant to the nation as a whole, Parsha Tzav concerns the sacrifices for the Kohanim. This is the reason Parshat Tzav begins with the words, "Comman Aharon and his sons" (Vayikra 6:2).
According to the Midrash, there is another reason why Tzav opens with the above words. Aharon's name is not mentioned a single time in Parsha Vayikra, yet Aharon's sons are mentioned (Vayikra 1:7, 8, 2:22). The reason for Aharon's name being omitted in Vayikra is because Hashem still resented that Aharon had participated (albeit with the right motivation) in the Golden Calf. Moshe pleaded on behalf of his brother and the Midrash records the following discussion between Moshe and Hashem:
Of course, worthy offspring do NOT just appear out of nowhere, but it is hard work to raise children to walk in the path of Hashem; it does not just happen. Let us all merit in producing and raising worthy offspring, as they are the future of Klal Yisrael....
Sorry to cut this short this week, but aside from the regular Shabbat cleaning, I also have Pesach cleaning coupled in
Shabbat Shalom from Zion
For candlelighting times no matter where you are:
www.ou.org/holidays/candlelighting
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"Study astronomy and physics if you desire to comprehend the relation between the world and G-d's management of it." - Maimonides, The Guide for the Perplexed
"Torah and science are NOT contradictory, but two truths." www.askmoses.com
"Be diligent in studying Torah and know what to answer to a heretic."- Rabbi Elazar, Pirkei Avot 2:19
As opposed to Parsha Vayikra which concerns the sacrifices which are relevant to the nation as a whole, Parsha Tzav concerns the sacrifices for the Kohanim. This is the reason Parshat Tzav begins with the words, "Comman Aharon and his sons" (Vayikra 6:2).
According to the Midrash, there is another reason why Tzav opens with the above words. Aharon's name is not mentioned a single time in Parsha Vayikra, yet Aharon's sons are mentioned (Vayikra 1:7, 8, 2:22). The reason for Aharon's name being omitted in Vayikra is because Hashem still resented that Aharon had participated (albeit with the right motivation) in the Golden Calf. Moshe pleaded on behalf of his brother and the Midrash records the following discussion between Moshe and Hashem:
Quote:
"What type of wood is suitable for kindling a fire on the mizbayach?" Moshe inquired.
"All kinds, except for branches from grape vines and olives," the Almighty informed him. "Those two are accorded honorary status because of the fruits they yield. Branches of the grape vine may not be used as fire wood on the altar since they supply wine for the nesachim (libations); neither may olive wood, for the olive yields oil for the menora and the mincha offerings."
Moshe immediately argued, "Master of the Universe, it seems from Your words that a person deserves regard merely for producing worthy offspring. You honored the grape vine and olive tree because of their produce. Should You then not treat Aharon in an honorable way (and address him directly) in spite of Your anger at him if only for the sake of his worthy sons?"
"I accept your argument," conceded the Almighty. He demonstrated His acquiescence by commencing parshas Tzav with the words, "Command Aharon and his sons...." (6:2). [ '', , '' ]
Of course, worthy offspring do NOT just appear out of nowhere, but it is hard work to raise children to walk in the path of Hashem; it does not just happen. Let us all merit in producing and raising worthy offspring, as they are the future of Klal Yisrael....
Sorry to cut this short this week, but aside from the regular Shabbat cleaning, I also have Pesach cleaning coupled in
Shabbat Shalom from Zion
For candlelighting times no matter where you are:
www.ou.org/holidays/candlelighting
___________________________________________________
"Study astronomy and physics if you desire to comprehend the relation between the world and G-d's management of it." - Maimonides, The Guide for the Perplexed
"Torah and science are NOT contradictory, but two truths." www.askmoses.com
"Be diligent in studying Torah and know what to answer to a heretic."- Rabbi Elazar, Pirkei Avot 2:19
