The translation of yafli, “shall dissociate,” follows Rashi, who views the Nazir as someone who breaks with society’s norms, seeking to separate himself from the temptations of his environment. It is a noble position to take, one to which not all of us can aspire. Ibn Ezra takes it a step further. He defines yafli as “wonderment.” The nazir is doing something astonishing. It is truly out of the ordinary to undertake a vow that will sever oneself from the taavos, physical desires, which others find so “life-sustaining.” Ibn Ezra is teaching us a powerful lesson: To overcome one’s habits;…
