The Torah refers to the thumb as bohen, while Chazal refer to it as the gudal because of its thickness (as implied by the word kusd which means large). Rabbeinu Bachya notes the specific names which Chazal have given to each finger of the hand. He cites Rashi’s commentary on the Talmud, Kesubos 5b, which explains the reason for the name of each finger. Each reason is based upon the finger’s specific function reflected in holy endeavor. It is amazing that when Chazal identified each finger, they named it in accordance with its holy function. Most people who use each…
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Rashi explains that the vestments should fit correctly on the Kohen. If they are either too long or too short, they are inappropriate for ritual purposes. Horav M. Sternbuch, Shlita, suggests that this concept also applies to other areas of spiritual endeavor. The external garment should be suitable and consistent with the stature of its wearer. The Rambam states that those designated elite who dedicate their entire life to Torah study are included as honorary members of the tribe of Levi. Their devoted service to Hashem represents the loftiest pursuit, parallel to the dedication of the Leviim. Therefore, the Torah…
The first task assigned to the Kohen every morning in the Bais Hamikdash was the removal of the ashes of the previous day’s sacrifices from the altar. Horav M. Shapiro, z.l., explains that these ashes were removed, because their cooling effect on the embers prevented the new fire from burning properly. It is prohibited to wield iron on the Mizbayach, because iron shortens life, while the Mizbayach lengthens it. Likewise, it was necessary to remove anything that smothered the fire which was designated to burn constantly. This also applies to the Menorah, whose residue was cleaned out in order to…
Throughout Sefer Vayikra we find the expressions, “Aharon and his sons” or “the sons of Aharon” constantly recurring. Rarely do we find Aharon mentioned seperately. Yet, the Kohanim have been able to trace their lineage directly to Aharon Ha’Kohen. It was never just Aharon alone; it was always Aharon together with his sons, preserving the link in the chain of our heritage. This is more noteworthy in Sefer Vayikra (more appropriately called, Toras Kohanim), the book which explains the laws concerning the priestly sacrifices. Sacrifice stands at the foundation of our people. It is at the root of the Jewish…