Difference between revisions of "Relationship Between Vayikra 1-5 and 6-7/2"
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<p>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:</p> | <p>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:</p> | ||
<opinion>Different Audiences | <opinion>Different Audiences | ||
− | <p>While Parashat Vayikra | + | <p>While Parashat Vayikra emphasizes the nation's role in the sacrificial process, Vayikra 6-7 focuses on the priest and his responsibilities.</p> |
<mekorot><multilink><a href="RambanVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Ramban</a><a href="RambanVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:2</a><a href="RambanVayikra6-18" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:18</a><a href="RambanVayikra7-38" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:38</a><a href="R. Moshe b. Nachman (Ramban, Nachmanides)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Moshe b. Nachman</a></multilink>,  <multilink><a href="AbarbanelVayikra6Introduction" data-aht="source">Abarbanel</a><a href="AbarbanelVayikra6Introduction" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6 Introduction</a><a href="AbarbanelVayikra6-13" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:13</a><a href="AbarbanelVayikra7-22" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:22</a><a href="R. Yitzchak Abarbanel" data-aht="parshan">About R. Yitzchak Abarbanel</a></multilink>, <multilink><a href="ShadalVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Shadal</a><a href="ShadalVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:2</a><a href="R. Shemuel David Luzzatto (Shadal)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Shemuel David Luzzatto</a></multilink>, <multilink><a href="RSRHirschVayikra6-1" data-aht="source">R. S.R. Hirsch</a><a href="RSRHirschVayikra6-1" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:1</a><a href="R. Samson Raphael Hirsch" data-aht="parshan">About R. Samson Raphael Hirsch</a></multilink></mekorot> | <mekorot><multilink><a href="RambanVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Ramban</a><a href="RambanVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:2</a><a href="RambanVayikra6-18" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:18</a><a href="RambanVayikra7-38" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:38</a><a href="R. Moshe b. Nachman (Ramban, Nachmanides)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Moshe b. Nachman</a></multilink>,  <multilink><a href="AbarbanelVayikra6Introduction" data-aht="source">Abarbanel</a><a href="AbarbanelVayikra6Introduction" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6 Introduction</a><a href="AbarbanelVayikra6-13" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:13</a><a href="AbarbanelVayikra7-22" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:22</a><a href="R. Yitzchak Abarbanel" data-aht="parshan">About R. Yitzchak Abarbanel</a></multilink>, <multilink><a href="ShadalVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Shadal</a><a href="ShadalVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:2</a><a href="R. Shemuel David Luzzatto (Shadal)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Shemuel David Luzzatto</a></multilink>, <multilink><a href="RSRHirschVayikra6-1" data-aht="source">R. S.R. Hirsch</a><a href="RSRHirschVayikra6-1" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:1</a><a href="R. Samson Raphael Hirsch" data-aht="parshan">About R. Samson Raphael Hirsch</a></multilink></mekorot> | ||
− | <point><b>Target of the command</b> – This position | + | <point><b>Target of the command</b> – This position stems from the differing opening commands of each unit.  The laws of Vayikra 1-5 open with the command "דַּבֵּר אֶל בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל" and are directed at the lay Israelite.<fn>As such, too, the phrases "וְנֶפֶשׁ כִּי" and "אָדָם כִּי" repeat numerous times in the unit (see Vayikra 1:2, 2:1, 4:2, and 5:1).</fn> In contrast, the laws of Vayikra 6-7 are prefaced by the statement, "צַו אֶת אַהֲרֹן וְאֶת בָּנָיו", targeting the priest.</point> |
<point><b>Order of the sacrifices</b> – The sacrifices in Parashat Vayikra are listed according to the reason which leads one to bring them, moving from voluntary offerings (<i>Olah, Minchah</i> and <i>Shelamim</i>) to obligatory sacrifices brought as atonement for sin (<i>Chatat</i> and <i>Asham</i>).<fn>This subdivision also explains why there is a new heading in Chapter 4:1 (וַיְדַבֵּר י״י אֶל מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר.); it serves to divide the obligatory offerings from the voluntary ones. The two sections are further distinguished by different guiding words. Throughout the first section the various offerings are repeatedly described as "אִשֵּׁי י״י" or "אִשֵּׁה רֵיחַ נִיחֹחַ לַי״י", while in the second section, we are repeatedly told: "וְכִפֶּר עֲלֵהֶם הַכֹּהֵן... וְנִסְלַח לוֹ".</fn> This is what is of foremost importance to the lay Israelite. Those in Parashat Tzav, in contrast, are listed according to their level of sanctity, an issue most relevant to the priests.  As such, they open with קדשי קדשים (<i>Olah, Minchah, Chatat</i> and <i>Asham</i>) and move to קדשים קלים (<i>Shelamim</i>).<fn>Here, too, the subunits are separated from one another, with <a href="Vayikra7-8-10" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:8-10</a> containing several summary verses, closing the unit of קדשי קדשים.</fn></point> | <point><b>Order of the sacrifices</b> – The sacrifices in Parashat Vayikra are listed according to the reason which leads one to bring them, moving from voluntary offerings (<i>Olah, Minchah</i> and <i>Shelamim</i>) to obligatory sacrifices brought as atonement for sin (<i>Chatat</i> and <i>Asham</i>).<fn>This subdivision also explains why there is a new heading in Chapter 4:1 (וַיְדַבֵּר י״י אֶל מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר.); it serves to divide the obligatory offerings from the voluntary ones. The two sections are further distinguished by different guiding words. Throughout the first section the various offerings are repeatedly described as "אִשֵּׁי י״י" or "אִשֵּׁה רֵיחַ נִיחֹחַ לַי״י", while in the second section, we are repeatedly told: "וְכִפֶּר עֲלֵהֶם הַכֹּהֵן... וְנִסְלַח לוֹ".</fn> This is what is of foremost importance to the lay Israelite. Those in Parashat Tzav, in contrast, are listed according to their level of sanctity, an issue most relevant to the priests.  As such, they open with קדשי קדשים (<i>Olah, Minchah, Chatat</i> and <i>Asham</i>) and move to קדשים קלים (<i>Shelamim</i>).<fn>Here, too, the subunits are separated from one another, with <a href="Vayikra7-8-10" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:8-10</a> containing several summary verses, closing the unit of קדשי קדשים.</fn></point> | ||
<point><b>Object to be sacrificed</b> – As Vayikra 1-5 focuses on the person bringing of the sacrifice, it is logical that only these verses distinguish between the different animals which can be brought for each sacrifice and the various types of meal offerings.<fn>Vayikra 7:9-10 does mention the various types of <i>Menachot</i>, but only as part of a summary statement.  It does not, though, delve individually into the laws of each.</fn></point> | <point><b>Object to be sacrificed</b> – As Vayikra 1-5 focuses on the person bringing of the sacrifice, it is logical that only these verses distinguish between the different animals which can be brought for each sacrifice and the various types of meal offerings.<fn>Vayikra 7:9-10 does mention the various types of <i>Menachot</i>, but only as part of a summary statement.  It does not, though, delve individually into the laws of each.</fn></point> | ||
− | <point><b>Reasons for bringing the offerings</b> – Only in Parashat Vayikra do the verses explain the sins and circumstances which mandate bringing a <i>Chatat</i> or <i>Asham</i>, as this is only relevant to the | + | <point><b>Reasons for bringing the offerings</b> – Only in Parashat Vayikra do the verses explain the sins and circumstances which mandate bringing a <i>Chatat</i> or <i>Asham</i>, as this is only relevant to the Israelite bringing the offering..</point> |
− | <point><b>Sacrificial procedure</b> – According to this position's understanding that Vayikra 1-5 focuses on the lay Israelite, it is surprising that most of the sacrificial procedures are mentioned specifically there rather than in Parshat Tzav which addresses the priests.  These sources could answer that the procedure is actually crucial for the layman | + | <point><b>Sacrificial procedure</b> – According to this position's understanding that Vayikra 1-5 focuses on the lay Israelite, it is surprising that most of the sacrificial procedures are mentioned specifically there rather than in Parshat Tzav which addresses the priests.  These sources could answer that the procedure is actually crucial for the layman as he should really be the one performing the entire rite; the priest simply acts as his representative, performing it in his stead.<fn>The first two stages of the process, laying of hands and slaughter,  are even actively done by the individual bringing the offering.  [Even though slaughtering was practically done by the priest, if done by a non-priest, the act is considered kosher. Moreover, in the verses, the subject of the command to slaughter is always the Israelite, not the priest.  See, for example, Vayikra 1:5, 1:11, 3:2, 3:8, 3:13, 4:24, and 4:29.]</fn>  As such, the placement of the discussion is logical.  In addition, once the procedures were mentioned in Parashat Vayikra, it was not necessary to mention them again in Parashat Tzav.  This explanation, however fails to address why the Asham is only mentioned in Vayikra 6 and why the Minchah's procedure is mentioned twice.</point> |
− | <point><b><i>Terumat haDeshen</i></b> – As the process of removing the ashes of the daily Olah offering has nothing to do with the lay Israelite's bringing of the sacrifice, but only the | + | <point><b><i>Terumat haDeshen</i></b> – As the process of removing the ashes of the daily Olah offering has nothing to do with the lay Israelite's bringing of the sacrifice, but only the priest's cleaning of the altar, it is not mentioned in Vayikra 1-5.</point> |
− | <point><b>Allocation of sacrifices</b> – Parashat Tzav, rather than Parashat Vayikra, speaks about the allocation of the sacrifices since, with the exception of the Olah | + | <point><b>Allocation of sacrifices</b> – Parashat Tzav, rather than Parashat Vayikra, speaks about the allocation of the sacrifices since, with the exception of the Olah<fn>By the Olah there is no discussion of the sacrifice's allocation regardless.</fn> and the Shelamim, these are divided between the priest and altar, and as such the laws relates to the priest rather than layman. It is still somewhat difficult why the discussion regarding the allocation of the Shelamim, which is very relevant to the lay Israelite, is not included in Parashat Vayikra.</point> |
<point><b>Sacrifices mentioned only in Parashat Tzav</b><ul> | <point><b>Sacrifices mentioned only in Parashat Tzav</b><ul> | ||
<li><b>מנחת כהן משיח</b> – As this sacrifice is only brought by a priest, it is omitted from the discussion in Parashat Vayikra and mentioned only in Parashat Tzav.</li> | <li><b>מנחת כהן משיח</b> – As this sacrifice is only brought by a priest, it is omitted from the discussion in Parashat Vayikra and mentioned only in Parashat Tzav.</li> | ||
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</ul></point> | </ul></point> | ||
<point><b>Ohel Moed vs. Har Sinai</b> – Ramban<fn>This is one of three explanations that he brings.  He also notes Chzal's understanding that the verse only mentions Mt. Sinai to teach that all the laws were originally taught to Moshe on the mountain and then repeated again in the Tabernacle.</fn> attempts to explain the apparent contradiction by suggesting that really the two phrases refer to the same place, the Tabernacle.<fn>One could have also suggested the opposite, that both phrases refer to Mt. Sinai, and that when Vayikra 1:1 speaks of the Ohel Moed, it is referring to Moshe's personal tent which was set up at the mountain (see Shemot 33:7-11). The advantage of this reading is that it allows one to suggest that all the laws of the sacrifices might have been commanded before the erection of the Tabernacle.  As these laws were to be utilized as soon as the Tabernacle was erected (sacrifices were brought during the dedication itself), it is logical that they were relayed earlier.</fn>  When the verses speaks of Mt. Sinai, it means in front of the mountain,<fn>Ramban points to Bemidbar 10:33 and Devarim 1:6 which similarly mention the "mountain" but really refer to the area surrounding it.</fn> where the Ohel Moed was stationed.<fn>He further suggests that verse 38 mentions "במדבר סיני" rather than "בהר סיני" for this very reason - to teach that the laws were not said on the mountain itself, but in its vicinity in the Wilderness.</fn></point> | <point><b>Ohel Moed vs. Har Sinai</b> – Ramban<fn>This is one of three explanations that he brings.  He also notes Chzal's understanding that the verse only mentions Mt. Sinai to teach that all the laws were originally taught to Moshe on the mountain and then repeated again in the Tabernacle.</fn> attempts to explain the apparent contradiction by suggesting that really the two phrases refer to the same place, the Tabernacle.<fn>One could have also suggested the opposite, that both phrases refer to Mt. Sinai, and that when Vayikra 1:1 speaks of the Ohel Moed, it is referring to Moshe's personal tent which was set up at the mountain (see Shemot 33:7-11). The advantage of this reading is that it allows one to suggest that all the laws of the sacrifices might have been commanded before the erection of the Tabernacle.  As these laws were to be utilized as soon as the Tabernacle was erected (sacrifices were brought during the dedication itself), it is logical that they were relayed earlier.</fn>  When the verses speaks of Mt. Sinai, it means in front of the mountain,<fn>Ramban points to Bemidbar 10:33 and Devarim 1:6 which similarly mention the "mountain" but really refer to the area surrounding it.</fn> where the Ohel Moed was stationed.<fn>He further suggests that verse 38 mentions "במדבר סיני" rather than "בהר סיני" for this very reason - to teach that the laws were not said on the mountain itself, but in its vicinity in the Wilderness.</fn></point> | ||
− | <point><b>The <i>Miluim</i></b> – The inclusion of the special consecration offering (Miliuim) in the summary sentences of Vayikra 7 is difficult for this position, as there is no mention of the <i>Miluim</i> in either Parashat Vayikra or Parashat Tzav. This position might suggest, as does HaKetav | + | <point><b>The <i>Miluim</i></b> – The inclusion of the special consecration offering (Miliuim) in the summary sentences of Vayikra 7 is difficult for this position, as there is no mention of the <i>Miluim</i> in either Parashat Vayikra or Parashat Tzav. This position might suggest, as does <multilink><a href="HaKetavVeHaKabbalahVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">HaKetav VeHaKabbalah</a><a href="HaKetavVeHaKabbalahVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:2</a><a href="HaKetavVeHaKabbalahVayikra7-37" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:37</a><a href="R. Yaakov Mecklenburg (HaKetav VeHaKabbalah)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Yaakov Mecklenburg</a></multilink>,<fn>See his position below.</fn> that it refers not to the sacrifice mentioned in Shemot 29, but to the Thanksgiving Offering. He posits that any sacrifice which is accompanied by bread might be referred to as a <i>Miluim</i>.<fn>See also <multilink><a href="RalbagVayikra7-37" data-aht="source">Ralbag</a><a href="RalbagVayikra7-37" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:37</a><a href="R. Levi b. Gershom (Ralbag, Gersonides)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Levi b. Gershom</a></multilink> similarly.</fn></point> |
</opinion> | </opinion> | ||
<opinion>Different Stages | <opinion>Different Stages | ||
− | <p>The directives of the two units speak of two different stages in the sacrificial service. Vayikra 1-5 | + | <p>The directives of the two units speak of two different stages in the sacrificial service. Vayikra 1-5 details the bringing and preparation of the sacrifice, while the laws of Chapters 6-7 turn to the aftermath of this process, the apportioning and consumption of the sacrifices by Hashem, priest and lay Israelite.</p> |
− | <mekorot>perhaps <multilink><a href="AkeidatYitzchakVayikraPeirush6" data-aht="source">Akeidat Yitzchak</a><a href="AkeidatYitzchakVayikraPeirush6" data-aht="source">Vayikra Peirush 6</a><a href="R. Yitzchak Arama (Akeidat Yitzchak)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Yitzchak Arama</a></multilink>,<fn>Akeidat Yitzchak speaks at length about how Vayikra 6-7 revolves around the allocation of the sacrifices to the priest. However, he does not say explicitly that this is why this unit is separated from Vayikra 1-5.</fn> <multilink><a href="HaKetavVeHaKabbalahVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">HaKetav VeHaKabbalah</a><a href="HaKetavVeHaKabbalahVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:2</a><a href="HaKetavVeHaKabbalahVayikra7-37" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:37</a><a href="R. Yaakov Mecklenburg (HaKetav VeHaKabbalah)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Yaakov Mecklenburg</a></multilink>, <fn>See also R"Y Grossman,<a href="https://www.etzion.org.il/he/3-%D7%A9%D7%AA%D7%99-%D7%A8%D7%A9%D7%99%D7%9E%D7%95%D7%AA-%D7%94%D7%A7%D7%95%D7%A8%D7%91%D7%A0%D7%95%D7%AA-%D7%A4%D7%A8%D7%A9%D7%AA-%D7%95%D7%99%D7%A7%D7%A8%D7%90-%D7%95%D7%A4%D7%A8%D7%A9%D7%AA-%D7%A6%D7%95"> "שתי רשימות הקורבנות"</a>.</fn></mekorot> | + | <mekorot>perhaps <multilink><a href="AkeidatYitzchakVayikraPeirush6" data-aht="source">Akeidat Yitzchak</a><a href="AkeidatYitzchakVayikraPeirush6" data-aht="source">Vayikra Peirush 6</a><a href="R. Yitzchak Arama (Akeidat Yitzchak)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Yitzchak Arama</a></multilink>,<fn>Akeidat Yitzchak speaks at length about how Vayikra 6-7 revolves around the allocation of the sacrifices to the priest. However, he does not say explicitly that this is why this unit is separated from Vayikra 1-5.</fn> <multilink><a href="HaKetavVeHaKabbalahVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">HaKetav VeHaKabbalah</a><a href="HaKetavVeHaKabbalahVayikra6-2" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:2</a><a href="HaKetavVeHaKabbalahVayikra7-37" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:37</a><a href="R. Yaakov Mecklenburg (HaKetav VeHaKabbalah)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Yaakov Mecklenburg</a></multilink>,<fn>See also R"Y Grossman,<a href="https://www.etzion.org.il/he/3-%D7%A9%D7%AA%D7%99-%D7%A8%D7%A9%D7%99%D7%9E%D7%95%D7%AA-%D7%94%D7%A7%D7%95%D7%A8%D7%91%D7%A0%D7%95%D7%AA-%D7%A4%D7%A8%D7%A9%D7%AA-%D7%95%D7%99%D7%A7%D7%A8%D7%90-%D7%95%D7%A4%D7%A8%D7%A9%D7%AA-%D7%A6%D7%95"> "שתי רשימות הקורבנות"</a>.</fn></mekorot> |
<point><b>Target of the command</b> – The laws of Vayikra 1-5 are directed at lay Israelites ("דַּבֵּר אֶל בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל") who bring the sacrifices, while the commands of Vayikra 6-7 are aimed at the priests ("צַו אֶת אַהֲרֹן וְאֶת בָּנָיו") who apportion them,<fn>They are the ones to sprinkle the blood or burn the fat on the altar and take their remaining portions. The one exception relates to the Shelmim offering, where it is the Israelite himself who allocates a portion to the priest.  As such, this section of laws is addressed once again to him and not the priest. </fn> in accord with the focus of each unit.</point> | <point><b>Target of the command</b> – The laws of Vayikra 1-5 are directed at lay Israelites ("דַּבֵּר אֶל בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל") who bring the sacrifices, while the commands of Vayikra 6-7 are aimed at the priests ("צַו אֶת אַהֲרֹן וְאֶת בָּנָיו") who apportion them,<fn>They are the ones to sprinkle the blood or burn the fat on the altar and take their remaining portions. The one exception relates to the Shelmim offering, where it is the Israelite himself who allocates a portion to the priest.  As such, this section of laws is addressed once again to him and not the priest. </fn> in accord with the focus of each unit.</point> | ||
<point><b>Order of the sacrifices</b> – The sacrifices in Parashat Vayikra are listed according to the level of obligation mandating their offering, while those of Parashat Tzav are ordered according to whom each is apportioned. Again, this is in line with the theme of each unit. <br/> | <point><b>Order of the sacrifices</b> – The sacrifices in Parashat Vayikra are listed according to the level of obligation mandating their offering, while those of Parashat Tzav are ordered according to whom each is apportioned. Again, this is in line with the theme of each unit. <br/> | ||
<ul> | <ul> | ||
<li>Thus, Vayikra 1-5 moves from voluntary offerings (<i>Olah</i>, <i>Minchah</i> and <i>Shelamim</i>) to obligatory sacrifices brought as atonement for sin (<i>Chatat</i> and <i>Asham</i>).</li> | <li>Thus, Vayikra 1-5 moves from voluntary offerings (<i>Olah</i>, <i>Minchah</i> and <i>Shelamim</i>) to obligatory sacrifices brought as atonement for sin (<i>Chatat</i> and <i>Asham</i>).</li> | ||
− | <li>In contrast, in Parashat Tzav the <i>Olah</i> is listed first as it is offered totally to Hashem.<fn>Only the skin is given to the priest.</fn>  The <i>Minchah and | + | <li>In contrast, in Parashat Tzav the <i>Olah</i> is listed first as it is offered totally to Hashem.<fn>Only the skin is given to the priest.</fn>  The <i>Minchah, Chatat and Asham </i>follow, as they are shared between Hashem and the priest. [The Minchah heads this group as there is one type, מנחת כהן משיח, which is for God exclusively, and the Chatat follows as there are some examples which are burnt totally<fn>The meat of the internal <i>Chataot</i> [see <a href="Vayikra6-23" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:23</a> and <multilink><a href="RashbamVayikra6-23" data-aht="source">Rashbam</a><a href="RashbamVayikra6-23" data-aht="source">Vayikra 6:23</a><a href="R. Shemuel b. Meir (Rashbam)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Shemuel b. Meir</a></multilink> there] such as the Bull of the anointed priest, are burnt outside the camp rather than eaten.</fn> and not eaten.<fn>One might have thought that within the discussion of <i>Menachot</i> and <i>Chataot</i>, the first sacrifices mentioned would have been those which are burnt totally, yet the opposite is true.  This is likely because the majority of these sacrifices are partaken of also by the priest, while those which are given totally to Hashem/ burnt are the exception, not the norm.  It is even possible that they are only mentioned here to serve as a contrast to those sacrifices from which the priest eats.</fn>] The unit closes with the <i>Shelamim</i> which is shared also by the lay Israelite.<fn>The Shelamim's unique status as קדשים קלים would explain why there are several concluding verses (<a href="Vayikra7-8-10" data-aht="source">Vayikra 7:8-10</a>) which separate it from the previous discussion.  In addition, as it is this only offering of which an Israelite might partake, there are two sections within the larger discussion, each with a new opening, (Vayikra 7:22-27 and 7:28-34) aimed at them specifically, warning that they may nonetheless not eat the portions meant for Hashem or the priest.</fn></li> |
</ul></point> | </ul></point> | ||
<point><b>Reasons for bringing the offerings and object to be sacrificed</b> – Since Vayikra 1-5 focuses on the bringing of the sacrifice, as expected, it is this unit which details both the circumstances which mandate bringing the offering and the various animals which can be brought..</point> | <point><b>Reasons for bringing the offerings and object to be sacrificed</b> – Since Vayikra 1-5 focuses on the bringing of the sacrifice, as expected, it is this unit which details both the circumstances which mandate bringing the offering and the various animals which can be brought..</point> | ||
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<li>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.</li> | <li>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.</li> | ||
</ul></point> | </ul></point> | ||
− | <point><b>Sacrifices mentioned only in Parashat Tzav</b> – Both the <i>Minchah</i> of the <i>Kohen Mashiach</i> and the Thanksgiving Offering, a type of <i>Shelamim</i>, are mentioned only in Parashat Tzav.  This position would explain that since each of these has certain laws regarding the allocation of the sacrifice that distinguish it from other offerings in its category,<fn>As opposed to most <i>Menachot</i> which are divided between the altar and the priest, this <i>Minchah</i> is given totally to Hashem.  The Thanksgiving Offering is unique in that it is accompanied by loaves of bread, unlike other <i>Shelamim</i> offerings.  These loaves are also given to the priest, and thus the offering is discussed here.</fn> they needed to be mentioned individually as a contrast to the other similar offerings.<fn>See <multilink><a href="AkeidatYitzchakVayikraPeirush6" data-aht="source">Akeidat Yitzchak</a><a href="AkeidatYitzchakVayikraPeirush6" data-aht="source">Vayikra Peirush 6</a><a href="R. Yitzchak Arama (Akeidat Yitzchak)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Yitzchak Arama</a></multilink>.</fn>  They are omitted from Parashat Vayikra because this distinction is irrelevant there, as the unit does not focus on the apportioning of the sacrifice.<fn>We would not have expected the sacrifices of the newly anointed priest to be found in Parashat Vayikra regardless, as those chapters revolve around the lay Israelite and his bringing of sacrifices, while this offering is unique to the priest. [According to Chazal, the verses refer not only to the inaugural offering of every priest but to the daily <i>minchat chavitin</i>, which was brought by the High Priest.  Regardless, the sacrifice is never brought by a layman.]</fn> | + | <point><b>Sacrifices mentioned only in Parashat Tzav</b> – Both the <i>Minchah</i> of the <i>Kohen Mashiach</i> and the Thanksgiving Offering, a type of <i>Shelamim</i>, are mentioned only in Parashat Tzav.  This position would explain that since each of these has certain laws regarding the allocation of the sacrifice that distinguish it from other offerings in its category,<fn>As opposed to most <i>Menachot</i> which are divided between the altar and the priest, this <i>Minchah</i> is given totally to Hashem.  The Thanksgiving Offering is unique in that it is accompanied by loaves of bread, unlike other <i>Shelamim</i> offerings.  These loaves are also given to the priest, and thus the offering is discussed here.</fn> they needed to be mentioned individually as a contrast to the other similar offerings.<fn>See <multilink><a href="AkeidatYitzchakVayikraPeirush6" data-aht="source">Akeidat Yitzchak</a><a href="AkeidatYitzchakVayikraPeirush6" data-aht="source">Vayikra Peirush 6</a><a href="R. Yitzchak Arama (Akeidat Yitzchak)" data-aht="parshan">About R. Yitzchak Arama</a></multilink>.</fn>  They are omitted from Parashat Vayikra because this distinction is irrelevant there, as the unit does not focus on the apportioning of the sacrifice.<fn>We would not have expected the sacrifices of the newly anointed priest to be found in Parashat Vayikra regardless, as those chapters revolve around the lay Israelite and his bringing of sacrifices, while this offering is unique to the priest. [According to Chazal, the verses refer not only to the inaugural offering of every priest but to the daily <i>minchat chavitin</i>, which was brought by the High Priest.  Regardless, the sacrifice is never brought by a layman.]</fn></point> |
<point><b><i>Terumat HaDeshen</i></b> – As the process of removing the ashes of the daily Olah is related to the second stage of the sacrificial service, after the sacrifice has already been offered and burnt, its logical place is in Parashat Tzav..  Moreover, as the ashes highlight how the entire offering had been given to Hashem,<fn>Note the language, "וְהֵרִים אֶת הַדֶּשֶׁן אֲשֶׁר <b>תֹּאכַל הָאֵשׁ אֶת הָעֹלָה</b> עַל הַמִּזְבֵּחַ", which highlights thatt he fire had consumed the offering.</fn> it is appropriate to the discussion regarding the allocation of offerings highlighted in Parashat Tzav.</point> | <point><b><i>Terumat HaDeshen</i></b> – As the process of removing the ashes of the daily Olah is related to the second stage of the sacrificial service, after the sacrifice has already been offered and burnt, its logical place is in Parashat Tzav..  Moreover, as the ashes highlight how the entire offering had been given to Hashem,<fn>Note the language, "וְהֵרִים אֶת הַדֶּשֶׁן אֲשֶׁר <b>תֹּאכַל הָאֵשׁ אֶת הָעֹלָה</b> עַל הַמִּזְבֵּחַ", which highlights thatt he fire had consumed the offering.</fn> it is appropriate to the discussion regarding the allocation of offerings highlighted in Parashat Tzav.</point> | ||
<point><b>Interim Summary – Vayikra 7:8-10</b> – These summary verse speaks solely about the portions which are allocated tot he priest and not about any other aspect of the sacrificial service, highlighting how this is the main theme of this unit.</point> | <point><b>Interim Summary – Vayikra 7:8-10</b> – These summary verse speaks solely about the portions which are allocated tot he priest and not about any other aspect of the sacrificial service, highlighting how this is the main theme of this unit.</point> |
Version as of 06:46, 17 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 emphasizes 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 details the bringing and preparation of the sacrifice, while the laws of Chapters 6-7 turn to the aftermath of this process, the apportioning and consumption of the sacrifices by 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.16 The Minchah, Chatat and Asham follow, as they are shared between Hashem and the priest. [The Minchah heads this group as there is one type, מנחת כהן משיח, which is for God exclusively, and the Chatat follows as there are some examples which are burnt totally17 and not eaten.18] The unit closes with the Shelamim which is shared also by the lay Israelite.19
- 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.20 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 6-733 proves that the verses form a conclusion not just to these chapters but also to Shemot 29 which discusses the Miluim in detail.34 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,35 it is mentioned only in Vayikra 6 together with the other laws relevant for all generations.36
- 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.37 [Alternatively, their mention is related to this chapter's specific emphasis on the portions allocated to the priests, discussed below.
- 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 29.40 The Minchah and Asham are exceptional because they were not offered during the Consecration ceremony.41 As such, their procedures are not discussed in Shemot 29, but are instead relayed in Vayikra 6,42 together with the other laws aimed at the priests which were relevant for all generations.43 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,44 it was necessary to distinguish between the various processes for each. It is possible that the protocol regarding the Asham is omitted45 because it might be considered a sub-type of Chatat,46 whose sacrificial process was already discussed.47
- 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.49
- 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 7.50
- 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.51
- " בִּמְקוֹם אֲשֶׁר תִּשָּׁחֵט הָעֹלָה תִּשָּׁחֵט הַחַטָּאת" – This verse,54 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. 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.55
- 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.