Dear congregation members, on this Shabbat week, we encounter the Torah portion called “Shemini,” which is found in the book of Leviticus. This portion presents us with several important lessons that we can apply in our daily lives.
Firstly, the Shemini portion highlights the importance of holiness in our lives. God gives instructions to Aaron and his sons, the priests, on how to properly perform the sacrifices and how to maintain purity in their service to God. This teaching reminds us that holiness is not just for priests and spiritual leaders, but each of us should seek holiness in our daily actions and thoughts. By doing so, we draw closer to God and strengthen our relationship with Him.
Additionally, in the Shemini portion, we read about the tragic incident in which two of Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, die for offering strange fire on the altar. This event teaches us the importance of following divine instructions and respecting the boundaries set by God. Nadab and Abihu took the initiative to offer strange fire without receiving God’s command, and they paid the highest price for their lack of obedience.
This lesson is especially relevant in our current world, where we often find ourselves challenging norms and seeking our own truth. It is crucial to remember that we must follow the laws and commandments set by God and respect His instructions instead of following our own inclinations.
Lastly, Shemini teaches us about the laws of kashrut, the dietary laws. These laws remind us that we should be mindful of what we consume, both physically and spiritually. By following the laws of kashrut, we become more aware of our actions and decisions, and we ensure that our choices align with God’s will.
In conclusion, the Shemini portion teaches us about the importance of holiness in our lives, the need to follow divine instructions and respect the boundaries set by God, and the relevance of being mindful of what we consume. May on this Shabbat, we strive to apply these lessons in our lives and draw even closer to God. Shabbat shalom.