For the week of Friday, March 29, 2024

Our Torah portion Tzav is derived from the verb to “command,” and the second sentence begins with the imperative, ‘command the priests…’  These three chapters continue the regulations about Temple sacrifices. We also learn about the procedure for consecrating Aaron and the priestly family into the Sanctuary service. The regular Haftorah reading for this Shabbat is one of the powerful denunciations by Jeremiah of the corrupt religious practices that engulfed the Jerusalem community. (circa 600-590 BCE). The prophet was decrying the obsession with sacrifices, and the lack of ethical sensitivity in the priestly practices. Jeremiah complains that the people are offering too many sacrifices, and have forgotten the ethical responsibilities of leading a decent life.

We are less than a month away from Passover, so prepare for some special learning about the great festival. Join us for Torah study on Shabbat morning at 9:30 a.m.