The Tanakh Podcast

A woman who births a child contracts impurity! Why?And she has to bring a sin offering?What sin did she incur?We will frame this episode in the broader framework of these chapters, which will go some way to answering these questions.

Explore the fascinating laws of forbidden foods and the criteria distinguishing kosher animals. Delve into the Rambam's health rationale, suggesting that prohibited foods harm physical well-being. Contrast this with Abarbanel's perspective, emphasizing the soul's refinement. Discover Ramban's view on how predators can influence character negatively. Finally, Shadal introduces the idea that kashrut fosters self-control and a unique community identity. It's a captivating discussion intertwining dietary choices with spirituality and social distinction.

On what should have been the happiest day, tragedy strikes in the Mishkan. Nadav and Avihu, young priests - Aharon's sons - bring foreign fire and are struck down - by fire - before God. Why did they break the protocol of the Temple?What motivated them flout the laws and recklessly disregard the Temple service?

Explore the significance of the Eighth Day in the Mishkan inauguration, where divine fire descends amidst themes of guilt and brotherhood. Delve into the connections between the sacrificial rituals and atonement, linking the event to the sin of the golden calf. Discover Aaron's profound anxiety, reflecting on imposter syndrome and his unique suitability for leadership. This narrative reveals how our weaknesses can transform into strengths, highlighting a powerful message about redemption and communal resilience.

Today we try to get to the essence of the Miluim, the 7-day consecration of the Priests. We will discover that they are almost becoming part of the architecture of the Temple itself!

As Prof Yechezkel Kaufman pointed out, the Temple is a world of silence. There are no prayers or curses or incantations. Just silence. What should we make of this?

Why does chapter 6-7 repeat all the sacrifices a second time?Why does the opening paragraph about the Olah actually discuss the ash and the fire rather than the Olah itself?

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.

We all sin! Sin is endemic to human nature: "There is not even a righteous person in the world who fails to sin." said Kohelet.But our chapter directs attention not to the sin of the ordinary Israelite but to the sins of leaders: The High Priest, the judiciary and the political leadership.Are their sins more egregious, or are they merely more prone to sin? Or are they possibly to set an example to us all?

Today we discuss the Shelamim, a joyous sacrifice, eaten with friends, expressing the bond that humans make with God.