The Tanakh Podcast #96 | Vayikra ch.5 - Inaction and Perfectionism
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Jan 7, 2026 Explore the intriguing concepts of sin-offerings in Leviticus chapter 5. Discover how the korban oleh ve-yored adjusts based on a person's means. Delve into the idea that some sins stem from inaction or neglect. Learn about the asham talui, an offering for uncertain sins, and the tension between piety and paralyzing self-doubt. This discussion blends ancient texts with modern dilemmas of perfectionism, inviting reflection on our moral choices.
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Sliding Scale For Sin Offerings
- The korban oleh ve-yored scales the offering to the giver's means rather than prescribing one fixed sacrifice.
- This sliding scale signals the Torah's sensitivity to individual capacity and social circumstance.
Sin Of Omission As Lower Severity
- The chapter singles out three omissions (not testifying, lingering impurity, forgotten vows) as passive failures rather than active transgressions.
- Rav Amnon Bazak frames these as sins of inaction, explaining their lighter ritual treatment.
Self-Assessment As The First Step
- The sliding-scale korban prompts self-assessment about one's means and social position before atonement.
- This mild introspection is presented as the crucial first step toward corrective action.