Tzav Text Study

The sacrifices teach us about constancy in relating to God.

Modern commentary and interpretation may ease some discomfort surrounding ancient liturgy.

Leviticus 6:1-8:36

The prohibition against leavened bread for most Temple grain offerings imbues the Temple with the spirit of freedom all year round.

The complex rules of thanksgiving offering ensured that it enabled the public participation of the broader community in thanking God.

God tells Moses to describe the rituals for some of the offerings to the priests; the priests then undergo the process of ordination.

Like the fire that always burned on the altar, we should make sure that our inner fires of compassion always inspire us to work for justice.

Zealousness regarding the elevation offering reminds us to be careful in our service of God and others.

Despite the occasional need for private expressions of Judaism, we must remember our connection to the larger public community.

The ceremony installing the priests teaches the importance of consecrating the entire body for sacred service.