Difference between revisions of "Relationship Between Vayikra 1-5 and 6-7/2"
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<mekorot>R. D"Z Hoffmann</mekorot> | <mekorot>R. D"Z Hoffmann</mekorot> | ||
<point><b>Distinct sets of laws</b> – According to R. D"Z Hoffmann, Shemot 29 and Vayikra 6-7 together form one set of laws, aimed at the priests, which were all commanded on Mount Sinai. Vayikra 1-5, in contrast, form a distinct set of laws aimed at the lay Israelite which were commanded in the Ohel Moed. While the laws of Shemot 29 are specific to the Days of the Consecration, the laws in both Vayikra 1-5 and 6-7 are relevant for all future generations.</point> | <point><b>Distinct sets of laws</b> – According to R. D"Z Hoffmann, Shemot 29 and Vayikra 6-7 together form one set of laws, aimed at the priests, which were all commanded on Mount Sinai. Vayikra 1-5, in contrast, form a distinct set of laws aimed at the lay Israelite which were commanded in the Ohel Moed. While the laws of Shemot 29 are specific to the Days of the Consecration, the laws in both Vayikra 1-5 and 6-7 are relevant for all future generations.</point> | ||
− | <point><b>Target audience</b> – | + | <point><b>Target audience</b> – R. Hoffmann agress with ramban, that the laws of Vayikra 1-5 open with the command: "דַּבֵּר אֶל בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל" because they are directed at lay Israelites who bring the sacrifices, while the commands of Vayikra 6-7 are introduced with the directive: "צַו אֶת אַהֲרֹן וְאֶת בָּנָיו" because they are aimed at the priests.  As above, this would account for the different ordering of the various sacrifices, and why it is only in Parashat Vayikra that we are told the reason why various sacrifices are offered and from which animals or grain they can be brought.</point> |
− | <point><b>Ohel Moed vs. Har Sinai</b> – R. Hoffmann's | + | <point><b>Ohel Moed vs. Har Sinai</b> – R. Hoffmann's theory relies on this distinction in location.  He assumes that the summary statement at the end of Vayikra 7 closes only that unit<fn>This is supported by the fact that its listing of the sacrifices matches the order given in Parashat Tzav.</fn> and as such does not contradict Vayikra 1:2, but rather teaches that the two units were mandated at different places and times. Vayikra 6-7 were given on Mt. Sinai,  before, and not together with, the laws of Vayikra 1-5.<fn>The language of "בְּיוֹם צַוֺּתוֹ אֶת בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל לְהַקְרִיב אֶת קׇרְבְּנֵיהֶם לַי״י בְּמִדְבַּר סִינָי" is nonetheless difficult as this appears to refer to a later time period, when the nation itself received the laws of sacrifices in Midbar Sinai, ie. the Ohel Moed.  R. Hoffmann explains that the verse means that the laws of the sacrifices which were commanded on the mountain, were first executed after the Taberncle was built when the nation received their laws. The words "בְּיוֹם צַוֺּתוֹ" should be read as if written "<b>מ</b>יוֹם צַוֺּתוֹ" (<i>from</i> the day He commanded...).  This is parallel to the phrase " בְּיוֹם הִקְרִיב אֹתָם לְכַהֵן לַי״י" in verse 35, which is similarly understood to mean "<b>מ</b>יוֹם הִקְרִיב אֹתָם".  [It would be difficult to say that the verse is saying that the portions of the sacrifices discussed in the chater will be allotted to Aharon only on the day that he was consecrated into priesthood, so the phrase s understood to mean <i>from</i> that day on.]<br/>For an alternative explanation of our phrase, see R. Shama, "" Megadim 2 (1986): He suggests that when the verse states ""בְּיוֹם צַוֺּתוֹ אֶת בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל לְהַקְרִיב אֶת קׇרְבְּנֵיהֶם לַי״י בְּמִדְבַּר סִינָי"' it is referring not to the discussion in Vayikra 1-5, but to the commands regarding the Tamid offering discussed already at the end of Shemot 29.   This was the first command relayed regarding sacrifices which the nation was to offer in the Wilderness (not as part of the Consecration ceremony). [According to him the words "בְּמִדְבַּר סִינָי" do not refer to the location where the command was given, but where the sacrifices were to be offered.] As such, the entire verse is referring to the commands of Shemot 29.</fn>  As such, they serve to supplement not these chapters but rather Shemot 29 which was similarly relayed on the mountain. Vayikra 1-5, in contrast, was only commanded after the Tabernacle was built and the people could begin to offer sacrifices.</point> |
<point><b>Why is Vayikra 6-7 separated from Shemot 29?</b> This position must explain why Vayikra 6-7 is separated from Shemot 29, if the laws were given together.  R.  Hoffmann answers that Shemot 29  only includes those laws which were needed for the Days of Consecration themselves, while Vayikra 6-7 adds those laws which are relevant for all time.<fn>One might question why then the daily Olah offering (עולת תמיד), which is for all generations,  is mentioned in Shemot 29.  However, considering the fundamental role played  by the <i>Tamid</i> in inviting Hashem's presence to dwell in the Mishkan, it is logical why it would close the unit on the Mishkan in Shemot.</fn>  As such, they are placed in Vayikra together with the other laws which are relevant to all generations.</point> | <point><b>Why is Vayikra 6-7 separated from Shemot 29?</b> This position must explain why Vayikra 6-7 is separated from Shemot 29, if the laws were given together.  R.  Hoffmann answers that Shemot 29  only includes those laws which were needed for the Days of Consecration themselves, while Vayikra 6-7 adds those laws which are relevant for all time.<fn>One might question why then the daily Olah offering (עולת תמיד), which is for all generations,  is mentioned in Shemot 29.  However, considering the fundamental role played  by the <i>Tamid</i> in inviting Hashem's presence to dwell in the Mishkan, it is logical why it would close the unit on the Mishkan in Shemot.</fn>  As such, they are placed in Vayikra together with the other laws which are relevant to all generations.</point> | ||
<point><b>Why doesn't Vayikra 6-7 precede Vayikra 1-5?</b> According to this approach one would have expected the laws of Parashat Vayikra to follow those in Parashat Tzav, as per the order in which they were commanded. However, it is possible that once Vayikra 6-7 was detached from Shemot 29, when writing the Torah for future generations, it made more sense to begin with laws aimed at the nation's bringing of sacrifices and only afterwards to include the laws aimed at the priests and their portions.<fn>See R"E Samet, who adds that by placing Vayikra 6-7 after Vayikra 1-5, these laws are juxtaposed to Chapter 8 which describes the fulfillment of the commands regarding the Days of Consecration, to which these chapters are so connected.</fn></point> | <point><b>Why doesn't Vayikra 6-7 precede Vayikra 1-5?</b> According to this approach one would have expected the laws of Parashat Vayikra to follow those in Parashat Tzav, as per the order in which they were commanded. However, it is possible that once Vayikra 6-7 was detached from Shemot 29, when writing the Torah for future generations, it made more sense to begin with laws aimed at the nation's bringing of sacrifices and only afterwards to include the laws aimed at the priests and their portions.<fn>See R"E Samet, who adds that by placing Vayikra 6-7 after Vayikra 1-5, these laws are juxtaposed to Chapter 8 which describes the fulfillment of the commands regarding the Days of Consecration, to which these chapters are so connected.</fn></point> | ||
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<li><b>"זֹאת מִשְׁחַת אַהֲרֹן וּמִשְׁחַת בָּנָיו... בְּיוֹם מׇשְׁחוֹ"</b> – This summary verse, too, connects Chapters 6-7 to the events of the Days of Consecration mandated in Shemot 29.</li> | <li><b>"זֹאת מִשְׁחַת אַהֲרֹן וּמִשְׁחַת בָּנָיו... בְּיוֹם מׇשְׁחוֹ"</b> – This summary verse, too, connects Chapters 6-7 to the events of the Days of Consecration mandated in Shemot 29.</li> | ||
</ul></point> | </ul></point> | ||
− | <point><b>Sacrifices mentioned only in Parashat Tzav</b> – | + | <point><b>Sacrifices mentioned only in Parashat Tzav</b> – Both the Minchah of the anointed Priest and the Thanksgiving offering are mentioned only in Parashat Tzav because they are are related to the <i>Miluim</i> ceremony:<br/> |
<ul> | <ul> | ||
<li><b>מנחת כהן משיח </b>– This <i>Minchah</i> is clearly connected to the days of Consecration, when Aharon was anointed, explaining its location in Vayikra 6 rather than Vayikra 2.  One might question, however, why the offering is not mentioned in Shemot 29. According to R. Hoffmann, since the sacrifice is relevant not only to Aharon, but to his descendants as well,<fn>According to Chazal, who suggest that the verses refer also to the <i>Minchat Chavittin</i>, which was brought daily, it is even more understandable why it is mentioned in Vayikra 6 rather than Shemot 29.</fn> it is mentioned only in Vayikra 6 together with the other laws relevant for all generations.<fn>The laws of Shemot 29, in contrast, are limited and specific to what was necessary for the days of Consecration.  In addition, the chapter only speaks of the offerings to be brought throughout the week-long ceremony, while this sacrifice was only brought on the first day of the ceremony .</fn></li> | <li><b>מנחת כהן משיח </b>– This <i>Minchah</i> is clearly connected to the days of Consecration, when Aharon was anointed, explaining its location in Vayikra 6 rather than Vayikra 2.  One might question, however, why the offering is not mentioned in Shemot 29. According to R. Hoffmann, since the sacrifice is relevant not only to Aharon, but to his descendants as well,<fn>According to Chazal, who suggest that the verses refer also to the <i>Minchat Chavittin</i>, which was brought daily, it is even more understandable why it is mentioned in Vayikra 6 rather than Shemot 29.</fn> it is mentioned only in Vayikra 6 together with the other laws relevant for all generations.<fn>The laws of Shemot 29, in contrast, are limited and specific to what was necessary for the days of Consecration.  In addition, the chapter only speaks of the offerings to be brought throughout the week-long ceremony, while this sacrifice was only brought on the first day of the ceremony .</fn></li> | ||
− | <li | + | <li><b>קרבן תודה</b>– The discussion of the קרבן תודהs focuses on the loaves of bread brought.  As such, it, too, might be mentioned in Vayikra 6 specifically since they are very similar to the loaves of bread which accompanied the Miluim offering.<fn>Both mention חלות מצות ורקיקי מצות. According to Mishna Menachot 7:2, the לחם מצות of Shemot 29 is equivalent to the "סלת מרבכת" of Vayikra 6 as well, so the selection of loaves was totally identical (with the important exception of one group being leavened).  In fact, R"E Samet suggests that Miluim offering was meant to act as Thanskgiving Offering given by the priests for the privilege of serving in the Mikdash.</fn>  [Alternatively, their mention is related to this chapter's specific emphasis on the portions allocated to the priests, discussed below.]</li> |
<li><b>The <i>Tamid</i></b> – Vayikra 6 does not focus on the voluntary Olah offerings (like Vayikra 1) but on the daily <i>Tamid</i> offering, or perhaps more specifically, on the constant fire which was to burn on the altar. This, too, connects the chapter to  Shemot 29 which discusses the <i>Tamid</i> at length,<fn>R. Hoffmann points out that the description of the sacrifices' burning "all night" assumes knowledge that it is referring to the Daily Offering rather than a regular Olah, further proving that Chapter 6 is connected to Shemot 29 (where the<i> Tamid</i> is mentioned) rather than Vayikra 1-5 (where only individual <i>Olot</i> are discussed).</fn> probably because it was this offering and continuous fire which both invited Hashem's presence to descend and symbolized how it continuously dwells in the Mishkan.<fn>As noted above, the <i>Tamid</i> is the only offering relevant for all generations which is also mentioned in Shemot 29, probably for this same reason.</fn></li> | <li><b>The <i>Tamid</i></b> – Vayikra 6 does not focus on the voluntary Olah offerings (like Vayikra 1) but on the daily <i>Tamid</i> offering, or perhaps more specifically, on the constant fire which was to burn on the altar. This, too, connects the chapter to  Shemot 29 which discusses the <i>Tamid</i> at length,<fn>R. Hoffmann points out that the description of the sacrifices' burning "all night" assumes knowledge that it is referring to the Daily Offering rather than a regular Olah, further proving that Chapter 6 is connected to Shemot 29 (where the<i> Tamid</i> is mentioned) rather than Vayikra 1-5 (where only individual <i>Olot</i> are discussed).</fn> probably because it was this offering and continuous fire which both invited Hashem's presence to descend and symbolized how it continuously dwells in the Mishkan.<fn>As noted above, the <i>Tamid</i> is the only offering relevant for all generations which is also mentioned in Shemot 29, probably for this same reason.</fn></li> | ||
</ul></point> | </ul></point> | ||
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<ul> | <ul> | ||
<li><b>Vayikra 6-7</b> – Vayikra 6-7 omits the procedures for most of the sacrifices not because they are mentioned in 1-5 (which was only given later) but because they were relayed already in Shemot 29.<fn>See the note below that when the sacrificial procedure of the Days of Consecration differed from that of future generations, the text tries to note this and elaborates.</fn>  The <i>Minchah</i> and <i>Asham</i> are exceptional because they were not offered during the Consecration ceremony.<fn>Similarly, <i>Terumat haDeshe</i>n (the gathering of the ashes of the Olah offering) which was not mentioned in Shemot 29, as it was not part of the one-time ceremony but rather connected to the daily Olah offering, is only mentioned in Vayikra 6.</fn> As such, their procedures are not discussed in Shemot 29, but are instead relayed in Vayikra 6,<fn>Nonetheless, the verses do not elaborate regarding the various sub-types o<i>f Menachot</i> since these are relevant mainly to the person bringing the offering rather than the priest.  As such, they are discussed only in Vayikra 2, which is aimed at the Israelites.</fn> together with the other laws aimed at the priests which were relevant for all generations.<fn>See also Malbim.</fn> It is only between the two sets of chapters, then, that the priests gets a complete list of procedures.</li> | <li><b>Vayikra 6-7</b> – Vayikra 6-7 omits the procedures for most of the sacrifices not because they are mentioned in 1-5 (which was only given later) but because they were relayed already in Shemot 29.<fn>See the note below that when the sacrificial procedure of the Days of Consecration differed from that of future generations, the text tries to note this and elaborates.</fn>  The <i>Minchah</i> and <i>Asham</i> are exceptional because they were not offered during the Consecration ceremony.<fn>Similarly, <i>Terumat haDeshe</i>n (the gathering of the ashes of the Olah offering) which was not mentioned in Shemot 29, as it was not part of the one-time ceremony but rather connected to the daily Olah offering, is only mentioned in Vayikra 6.</fn> As such, their procedures are not discussed in Shemot 29, but are instead relayed in Vayikra 6,<fn>Nonetheless, the verses do not elaborate regarding the various sub-types o<i>f Menachot</i> since these are relevant mainly to the person bringing the offering rather than the priest.  As such, they are discussed only in Vayikra 2, which is aimed at the Israelites.</fn> together with the other laws aimed at the priests which were relevant for all generations.<fn>See also Malbim.</fn> It is only between the two sets of chapters, then, that the priests gets a complete list of procedures.</li> | ||
− | <li><b>Vayikra 1-5</b> – Though the laws of Vayikra 1-5 are given after the laws of Shemot 29 and Parashat Tzav, they also mention the protocol for each sacrifice, since here these laws are aimed at the lay Israelite rather than the priest. Since only in these chapters is there a distinction between the types of animals that might be brought for each sacrifice,<fn>This is logical as it is these chapters which are aimed at the lay Israelite who is actually  bringing of the sacrifice, where it is necessary to differentiate between the animals brought.</fn> it was necessary to distinguish between the various processes for each. It is possible that the protocol regarding the <i>Asham</i> is omitted because it might be considered a sub-type of <i>Chatat,<fn>Throughout the discussion of both offerings, the two roots אשם and חטא appear interchangeably, suggesting that the two might be variations of the same category of sacrifice.</fn></i> whose sacrificial process was already discussed.<fn>See Vayikra 5:1-13 which speaks of the קרבן עולה ויורד, a specific type of Chatat which could be brought from either an animal, fowl, or grains depending on a person's means.   Though the verses elaborate regarding the sacrificial procedure of the bird and grains, it omits the equivalent discussion by the animal.  Apparently this is because the previous chapter, in the context of the regular Chatat offering, already detailed the protocol for such animals (but not for fowl or grains.)  If the Asham is also considered a  Chatat, there would similarly be no need to elaborate regarding its procedure for one could rely on these earlier verses as well.</fn>  | + | <li><b>Vayikra 1-5</b> – Though the laws of Vayikra 1-5 are given after the laws of Shemot 29 and Parashat Tzav, they also mention the protocol for each sacrifice, since here these laws are aimed at the lay Israelite rather than the priest. Since only in these chapters is there a distinction between the types of animals that might be brought for each sacrifice,<fn>This is logical as it is these chapters which are aimed at the lay Israelite who is actually  bringing of the sacrifice, where it is necessary to differentiate between the animals brought.</fn> it was necessary to distinguish between the various processes for each. It is possible that the protocol regarding the <i>Asham</i> is omitted<fn>R. Hoffmann alternatively suggests that since only one type of animal could be brought for the Asham, there was no need to distinguish between different procedures and so the verses omit the discussion entirely, relying instead on what is known from Vayikra 6-7.</fn> because it might be considered a sub-type of <i>Chatat,<fn>Throughout the discussion of both offerings, the two roots אשם and חטא appear interchangeably, suggesting that the two might be variations of the same category of sacrifice.</fn></i> whose sacrificial process was already discussed.<fn>See Vayikra 5:1-13 which speaks of the קרבן עולה ויורד, a specific type of Chatat which could be brought from either an animal, fowl, or grains depending on a person's means.   Though the verses elaborate regarding the sacrificial procedure of the bird and grains, it omits the equivalent discussion by the animal.  Apparently this is because the previous chapter, in the context of the regular Chatat offering, already detailed the protocol for such animals (but not for fowl or grains.)  If the Asham is also considered a  Chatat, there would similarly be no need to elaborate regarding its procedure for one could rely on these earlier verses as well.</fn>  </li> |
</ul></point> | </ul></point> | ||
− | <point><b>Apportioning of the sacrifices</b> – According to R. Hoffmann, the laws regarding the apportioning of the <i>Chatat</i> and <i>Shelamim</i> are repeated and emphasized in Vayikra 6-7 because these sacrifices' allocation | + | <point><b>Apportioning of the sacrifices</b> – According to R. Hoffmann, the laws regarding the apportioning of the <i>Chatat</i> and <i>Shelamim</i> are repeated and emphasized in Vayikra 6-7 because these sacrifices' allocation was not identical during the Day of Consecration and thereafter.<fn>In contrast, the laws of the Olah offering, which is always given totally to Hashem just as it had been during the Days of Cosecration, is barely mentioned in Vayikra 6.  Only the gathering of its ashes and need for a constant fire on the altar are discussed.</fn> As such, further clarification was needed.<br/> |
<ul> | <ul> | ||
<li><b>חטאת</b> – During the days of Consecration, the meat and skin of the Chatat offering were burnt outside the camp.  Vayikra 6 comes to teach that normally, in contrast, the priest is to eat of this meat.<fn>The other law which is emphasized in Vayikra 6 is that the <i>Chatat</i> is considered קדש קדשים, and must be eaten in a holy place.  This law is intrinsically connected to the first.  Now that the priest is allocated a portion of the <i>Chatat</i>, he need to know where to eat it.</fn></li> | <li><b>חטאת</b> – During the days of Consecration, the meat and skin of the Chatat offering were burnt outside the camp.  Vayikra 6 comes to teach that normally, in contrast, the priest is to eat of this meat.<fn>The other law which is emphasized in Vayikra 6 is that the <i>Chatat</i> is considered קדש קדשים, and must be eaten in a holy place.  This law is intrinsically connected to the first.  Now that the priest is allocated a portion of the <i>Chatat</i>, he need to know where to eat it.</fn></li> | ||
<li><b>קרבן שלמים</b> – During the <i>Miluim</i> ceremony the ram's right thigh was offered to Hashem together with the fat, and the breast was given to Moshe (who was the acting priest).  Normally, though, both this thigh and breast are given to the priest, as emphasized in Vayikra 7.<fn>This might explain why, after speaking of offering the thigh to Hashem during the Miluim ceremony, Shemot 29 goes out of its way to explain "כִּי אֵיל מִלֻּאִים הוּא". It is only because this is a consecration offering that it is given to Hashem</fn></li> | <li><b>קרבן שלמים</b> – During the <i>Miluim</i> ceremony the ram's right thigh was offered to Hashem together with the fat, and the breast was given to Moshe (who was the acting priest).  Normally, though, both this thigh and breast are given to the priest, as emphasized in Vayikra 7.<fn>This might explain why, after speaking of offering the thigh to Hashem during the Miluim ceremony, Shemot 29 goes out of its way to explain "כִּי אֵיל מִלֻּאִים הוּא". It is only because this is a consecration offering that it is given to Hashem</fn></li> | ||
− | <li><b>לחמי תודה</b> – During the <i>Miluim</i> ceremony, the accompanying loaves of bread were | + | <li><b>לחמי תודה</b> – During the <i>Miluim</i> ceremony, some of the accompanying loaves of bread were sacrificed on the altar. As such, Vayikra 7 emphasizes that the loaves that accompany Thanksgiving Offerings, in contrast, were eaten by the priest and not sacrificed.<fn>A second distinction between the two which is emphasized in Vayikra 7, is the fact that only לחמי תודה were leavened. This difference likely stems form the first; anything which was to be sacrificed on the altar could not have been leavened.  It is possible that these new laws are the reason why the לחמי תודה are singled out for mention in Parashat Tzav, while they are not mentioned at all in Vayikra 1-5.</fn></li> |
</ul></point> | </ul></point> | ||
<point><b>"וְהִשְׁלִיךְ אֹתָהּ אֵצֶל הַמִּזְבֵּחַ קֵדְמָה אֶל מְקוֹם הַדָּשֶׁן"</b> – R. Hoffman points to this verse as proof that the laws of Vayikra 1-5 were given after those of Vayikra 6-7 and are aware of them. The verse assumes knowledge of the place where the ashes of the Olah were brought, even though this is mentioned nowhere in this unit and only in Parashat Tzav.<fn>undefined</fn></point> | <point><b>"וְהִשְׁלִיךְ אֹתָהּ אֵצֶל הַמִּזְבֵּחַ קֵדְמָה אֶל מְקוֹם הַדָּשֶׁן"</b> – R. Hoffman points to this verse as proof that the laws of Vayikra 1-5 were given after those of Vayikra 6-7 and are aware of them. The verse assumes knowledge of the place where the ashes of the Olah were brought, even though this is mentioned nowhere in this unit and only in Parashat Tzav.<fn>undefined</fn></point> | ||
<point><b>"כׇּל חֵלֶב וְכׇל דָּם לֹא תֹאכֵלוּ"</b> – R. Hoffmann similarly points to the fact that Vayikra 3:17 mentions the prohibition to eat blood and fat only in passing, as proof that it is relying on the more elaborate set of laws in Vayikra 7:22-27.<fn>Since these chapters highlight the allocation of the parts of the sacrifice, they are the natural place to speak of those parts of the animal which are always "Hashem's portion" and therefore prohibited to man. <br/>One might still question why the discussion is found specifically with regards to the Shelmaim offering, when the prohibition applies to all sacrifices. It is possible that since this offering is unique in being shared by priest and layman alike, and the only parts which go to Hashem are the blood and fat, it was necessary to highlight he prohibition here more than anywhere else.</fn> If so, this is further evidence that the laws of Vayikra 6-7 were given first.</point> | <point><b>"כׇּל חֵלֶב וְכׇל דָּם לֹא תֹאכֵלוּ"</b> – R. Hoffmann similarly points to the fact that Vayikra 3:17 mentions the prohibition to eat blood and fat only in passing, as proof that it is relying on the more elaborate set of laws in Vayikra 7:22-27.<fn>Since these chapters highlight the allocation of the parts of the sacrifice, they are the natural place to speak of those parts of the animal which are always "Hashem's portion" and therefore prohibited to man. <br/>One might still question why the discussion is found specifically with regards to the Shelmaim offering, when the prohibition applies to all sacrifices. It is possible that since this offering is unique in being shared by priest and layman alike, and the only parts which go to Hashem are the blood and fat, it was necessary to highlight he prohibition here more than anywhere else.</fn> If so, this is further evidence that the laws of Vayikra 6-7 were given first.</point> | ||
− | <point><b>"בִּמְקוֹם אֲשֶׁר תִּשָּׁחֵט הָעֹלָה תִּשָּׁחֵט הַחַטָּאת | + | <point><b>Verse which assmue knowledge of Vayikra 1-5</b><ul> |
+ | <li>"<b> בִּמְקוֹם אֲשֶׁר תִּשָּׁחֵט הָעֹלָה תִּשָּׁחֵט הַחַטָּאת</b>" – This verse,<fn>See also the similar formulation by the Asham.</fn> at first glance, is somewhat difficult for this position as Shemot 29 does not delineate the place of the slaughter.  As such, the verse seems to be relying on information gleaned from Vayikra 1-5, suggesting that it is aware of these verses and was commanded only after them.  R. Hoffmann responds that Shemot 29:43's statement: "עֹלַת תָּמִיד לְדֹרֹתֵיכֶם פֶּתַח אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" suggests that the location was relayed orally and known to the priests.<fn>He also notes that the list of the various individual <i>Menachot</i> in 7:9-10 also appear to assume knowledge of Vayikra 2 (as these <i>Menachot</i> are not mentioned anywhere in Shemot 29).  R. Hoffmann posits that it is possible that these categories of<i> Menachot</i> were well known  from ancient times.</fn></li> | ||
+ | <li><b>List of Menachot in  Vayikra 7:9-10</b>–  This list of the various individual Menachot  also appears to assume knowledge of Vayikra 2 (as these Menachot are not mentioned anywhere in Shemot 29). R. Hoffmann posits that it is possible that these categories of Menachot were well known from ancient times.</li> | ||
+ | </ul> | ||
+ | In both cases, one could alternatively suggest that once the laws were written for future generations and placed after Vayikra 1-5, the Torah is assuming that the reader is familiar with these points.  This, though, highlights  difficulty with R. Hoffmann's approach as a whole.  For, how is one to know which parts of Vayiikra 6-7 constitute what what was originally commanded on Mt. Sinai and what was changed when it was written for future generations?</point> | ||
</category> | </category> | ||
</approaches> | </approaches> | ||
</page> | </page> | ||
</aht-xml> | </aht-xml> |
Version as of 15:06, 16 March 2019
Relationship Between Vayikra 1-5 and 6-7
Exegetical Approaches
Complement Vayikra 1-5
The laws of Vayikra 6-7 complement those in Vayikra 1-5. This position divides regarding the unique focus of each unit that differentiates it from the other:
Different Audiences
While Parashat Vayikra focuses on the nation's role in the sacrificial process, Vayikra 6-7 focuses on the priest and his responsibilities.
- מנחת כהן משיח – As this sacrifice is only brought by a priest, it is omitted from the discussion in Parashat Vayikra and mentioned only in Parashat Tzav.
- קרבן תודה – It is not clear why this subcategory of Shelamim, which can also be brought by an Israelite, is singled out in Tzav.
Different Stages
The directives of the two units speak of two different stages in the sacrificial service. Vayikra 1-5 focus on the bringing and preparation of the sacrifice, while the laws of Chapters 6-7 focus on the aftermath, the apportioning and consumption of the sacrifices between Hashem, priest and lay Israelite.
- Thus, Vayikra 1-5 moves from voluntary offerings (Olah, Minchah and Shelamim) to obligatory sacrifices brought as atonement for sin (Chatat and Asham).
- In contrast, in Parashat Tzav the Olah is listed first as it is offered totally to Hashem.14 The Minchah and Chatat follow as there are examples of each which are for God exclusively15 and others that are shared also by the priest.16 The Asham, which is always divided between Hashem and the priest, comes next, and the unit closes with the Shelamim which is shared also by the lay Israelite.17
- The Minchah – As the Minchah is a meal offering which does not require slaughter, sprinkling of blood, or the like, its preparation is basically equivalent to its allotment between the altar and the priest, and so it is mentioned in both units.18 This explains why the parts of the procedure which are related to the offering's preparation rather than its allocation, such as the placing of oil and frankincense on the offering, are omitted in Parashat Tzav.
- The Asham – It is not clear, according to this position, why the Asham's sacrificial procedure is mentioned in Vayikra 6 and not in Vayikra 5, where expected.
- Details – several other small details are mentioned in both units, such as the fact and placement of the slaughter of the Chatat. This though might be mentioned just to introduce the fact that it is specifically the priest who does the work who receives a portion of the sacrifice.
Supplement Shemot 29
The laws of Vayikra 6-7 supplement the laws regarding the Days of Consecration in Shemot 29, adding laws specific to the priest which were relevant not only for this ceremony but for future generations as well. The laws of Vayikra 1-5 are detached from the ceremony and focus instead on laws governing the individual's bringing of sacrifices throughout the generations
- "זֹאת הַתּוֹרָה לָעֹלָה... וְלַמִּלּוּאִים" – R. Hoffmann suggests that the inclusion of the Miluim in the closing verses of Vayikra 6-730 proves that the verses form a conclusion not just to these chapters but also to Shemot 29 which discusses the Miluim in detail.31 As such, all three chapters form one unit and were commanded together.
- "זֹאת מִשְׁחַת אַהֲרֹן וּמִשְׁחַת בָּנָיו... בְּיוֹם מׇשְׁחוֹ" – This summary verse, too, connects Chapters 6-7 to the events of the Days of Consecration mandated in Shemot 29.
- מנחת כהן משיח – This Minchah is clearly connected to the days of Consecration, when Aharon was anointed, explaining its location in Vayikra 6 rather than Vayikra 2. One might question, however, why the offering is not mentioned in Shemot 29. According to R. Hoffmann, since the sacrifice is relevant not only to Aharon, but to his descendants as well,32 it is mentioned only in Vayikra 6 together with the other laws relevant for all generations.33
- קרבן תודה– The discussion of the קרבן תודהs focuses on the loaves of bread brought. As such, it, too, might be mentioned in Vayikra 6 specifically since they are very similar to the loaves of bread which accompanied the Miluim offering.34 [Alternatively, their mention is related to this chapter's specific emphasis on the portions allocated to the priests, discussed below.]
- The Tamid – Vayikra 6 does not focus on the voluntary Olah offerings (like Vayikra 1) but on the daily Tamid offering, or perhaps more specifically, on the constant fire which was to burn on the altar. This, too, connects the chapter to Shemot 29 which discusses the Tamid at length,35 probably because it was this offering and continuous fire which both invited Hashem's presence to descend and symbolized how it continuously dwells in the Mishkan.36
- Vayikra 6-7 – Vayikra 6-7 omits the procedures for most of the sacrifices not because they are mentioned in 1-5 (which was only given later) but because they were relayed already in Shemot 29.37 The Minchah and Asham are exceptional because they were not offered during the Consecration ceremony.38 As such, their procedures are not discussed in Shemot 29, but are instead relayed in Vayikra 6,39 together with the other laws aimed at the priests which were relevant for all generations.40 It is only between the two sets of chapters, then, that the priests gets a complete list of procedures.
- Vayikra 1-5 – Though the laws of Vayikra 1-5 are given after the laws of Shemot 29 and Parashat Tzav, they also mention the protocol for each sacrifice, since here these laws are aimed at the lay Israelite rather than the priest. Since only in these chapters is there a distinction between the types of animals that might be brought for each sacrifice,41 it was necessary to distinguish between the various processes for each. It is possible that the protocol regarding the Asham is omitted42 because it might be considered a sub-type of Chatat,43 whose sacrificial process was already discussed.44
- חטאת – During the days of Consecration, the meat and skin of the Chatat offering were burnt outside the camp. Vayikra 6 comes to teach that normally, in contrast, the priest is to eat of this meat.46
- קרבן שלמים – During the Miluim ceremony the ram's right thigh was offered to Hashem together with the fat, and the breast was given to Moshe (who was the acting priest). Normally, though, both this thigh and breast are given to the priest, as emphasized in Vayikra 7.47
- לחמי תודה – During the Miluim ceremony, some of the accompanying loaves of bread were sacrificed on the altar. As such, Vayikra 7 emphasizes that the loaves that accompany Thanksgiving Offerings, in contrast, were eaten by the priest and not sacrificed.48
- " בִּמְקוֹם אֲשֶׁר תִּשָּׁחֵט הָעֹלָה תִּשָּׁחֵט הַחַטָּאת" – This verse,51 at first glance, is somewhat difficult for this position as Shemot 29 does not delineate the place of the slaughter. As such, the verse seems to be relying on information gleaned from Vayikra 1-5, suggesting that it is aware of these verses and was commanded only after them. R. Hoffmann responds that Shemot 29:43's statement: "עֹלַת תָּמִיד לְדֹרֹתֵיכֶם פֶּתַח אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" suggests that the location was relayed orally and known to the priests.52
- List of Menachot in Vayikra 7:9-10– This list of the various individual Menachot also appears to assume knowledge of Vayikra 2 (as these Menachot are not mentioned anywhere in Shemot 29). R. Hoffmann posits that it is possible that these categories of Menachot were well known from ancient times.