Emor Commentary

An unusual juxtaposition in this Torah portion highlights an oft-overlooked piece of observing the major festivals.

Reckoning with the exclusion of those with disabilities and illnesses from the Temple service.

The Jewish holidays can help those on the periphery gain access to the rhythm of Jewish life.

Obligations to the poor at harvest time.

Leviticus 21:1-24:23

Despite their focus on life, priests are permitted to attend to their closest relatives in death.

God gives Moses a series of laws specific to the priests; God then instructs Moses to tell the people about the festivals in addition to laws of blasphemy and murder.

The commandment to proclaim the festivals includes concepts of communal responsibility and imitating God.

The days between Passover and Shavuot are a time of great vulnerability and profound opportunity.

The biblical exclusion of people with disabilities from serving in the priesthood demands that we develop greater sensitivity to those with special needs in our communities.