Parshas Shemini 5765

The inauguration of the Tabernacle occurred on the first day of the month of Nissan. Ahron, the High Priest, and his sons, were commanded to bring sacrifices, after which G-d's presence would be revealed to the people. The sacrifices were brought and a fire descended from above and consumed the sacrifices from atop the alter. This was a sign that the people had been forgiven for the sin of the golden calf, and they rejoiced.

Unfortunately, the joy did not last long. Ahron's two oldest sons, Nadav and Avihu, brought their own pans of fire and incense to the altar, without being commanded to do so. A fire suddenly descended from Heaven and struck Nadav and Avihu dead. Ahron accepted the tragedy in silence and did not complain about G-d's harsh decree.

The Torah doesn't really explain why the sin was considered a capital offense. Some commentaries explain that they did not confer first with Moshe before bringing their own fire. Although they may have had valid reasons for bringing it, since it was without instruction, it was considered a "strange fire". This was especially true considering that the inauguration was supposed to complete the atonement for the golden calf, which had also been made without prior permission.

Immediately following Ahron's tragedy G-d instructed Ahron that the kohanim, or priests, were not allowed to do their service while under the influence of any intoxicating beverage. The Torah considers this to be a profanity of that which is holy. This is the only instance we find G-d speaking to Ahron alone. The Rabbis understand this as a reward for not complaining about his sons' death.

Many of the laws of kashrus, the dietary laws, are also discussed. Only land animals that chew their cud and have split hooves may be eaten. Marine animals must have both fins and scales. The Torah lists certain birds that may not be eaten. Although the Torah does not specify any physical characteristics, birds of prey are all prohibited. No reptiles or creeping animals may be eaten, except for certain types of grasshoppers.

The Torah explains that a Jew must sanctify his physical being. The non-kosher species contaminate the Jewish soul and clog his "spiritual arteries", and thus must be avoided by Jews.

"...wine and alcoholic beverages you should not drink, you and your sons, when you come to the Tent of Meeting" ( Lev. 10:9)

A student of the Chafetz Chaim became quite drunk on Purim, and badgered the Chafetz Chaim to promise him a place near him in the World to Come. The Chafetz Chaim ignored the young man's request, but he refused to let go. Finally, realizing he could no longer ignore him, the Chafetz Chaim said, "Listen, I don't have many merits, but if I do have some merit it is because I am careful not to speak Lashon Hara (gossip). Promise me you won't speak Lashon Hara, and I promise you a seat near me."

The drunken fellow refused. "I want a promise without conditions!" he complained.

The Chafetz Chaim shuddered and motioned those around him to remove the student. "Oy!" he murmured, "Some people can acquire eternity in a moment, while others can lose it in a moment."

Did You Know...

Shalosh Seudos, the third Shabbos meal, may not be eaten before a half hour after noon. Preferably it should be eaten after praying Mincha. When Pesach falls on Saturday night this presents a dilemma, since neither matza nor chametz may be eaten in the afternoon before Pesach. Many authorities also prohibit eating egg matza after the fifth hour Erev Pesach, and some even prohibit products baked from matza meal. The authorities recommend eating fruit, vegetables, meat, or fish for Shalosh Seudos. Some authorities permit studying Torah instead of eating.