For the week of Friday, April 12, 2024

Our Torah portion presents the rituals of purification for a woman after childbirth. It also explains the method for diagnosing a variety of skin diseases. The title of the ‘sedrah’ comes from the verb ‘zera,’ which in conjugation means “to bring forth seed,” i.e. to bear a child. The general theme focuses on the cleansing and purity of the women. As we know from biblical studies, the question of blood, and its cleanliness and/or uncleanliness, was a major issue for people in the ancient world.In chapter 13 we have detailed explanations about the problem of skin diseases.

The Haftorah reading deals with a fascinating story of an Aramean general, Naaman, who is afflicted with a skin ailment. The general deals with the prophet Elisha, who tells the leader that he must bathe in the Jordan River seven times, in order to heal himself of this terrible ailment. Naaman is angry with this prescription: “I thought he would come out and…call out in the name of the Eternal his God, and wave his hand at the spot and cure me of the disease.”

Ultimately the general is convinced by his servants that bathing in the Jordan is the best cure, and he acknowledges the deeper meaningof Elisha’s instructions.

 Join us for Torah study this coming Shabbat morning.