Thursday, March 21, 2013

Daily Aliya for Tzav, Chamishi (5th Aliya)

Aliya Summary: A bull as a sin-offering is brought and Aharon and his sons "lean" on it. Leaning (smicha) is accompanied by confession (vidui) or words of praise to G-d, depending upon the sacrifice. The bull was slaughtered and part of its blood was put on the corners of the Altar and on its base. Parts of the bull were placed on the Altar; the remainder was burned outside the camp.

Leaning is a vital element of most personal korbanot. It facilitates a psychological identification with the animal and adds meaning to the act of sacrifice. If acts had to have meaning, certainly words (prayers) should have even more meaning/identification!

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