Relationship Between Vayikra 1-5 and 6-7/2
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Relationship Between Vayikra 1-5 and 6-7
Exegetical Approaches
Complement to Vayikra 1-5
The laws of Vayikra 6-7 complement those in Vayikra 1-5. The directives of Vayikra 1-5 focus on the bringing and preparation of the sacrifice, while the laws of Chapters 6-7 focus on the apportioning of the sacrifice and associated priestly functions.
Audience – 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. This accords with the focus of each unit
Order of the sacrifices – The sacrifices in Parashat Vayikra are listed according to the circumstances under which they are brought, while those of Parashat Tzav are ordered according to whom each is apportioned.1
- Thus, Vayikra 1-5 moves from voluntary offerings (Olah, Minchah and Shelamim) to obligatory sacrifices brought as atonement for sin (Chatat and Asham).2
- In contrast, Parashat Tzav moves from קדשי קדשים to קדשים קלים. The Olah is listed first as it is offered totally to Hashem. The Minchah follows as some meal offerings are for God exclusively and others are shared also by the priest. The Chatat and Asham, which are always divided between Hashem and the priest come next, while the unit closes with the Shelamim which is shared also by the lay Israelite.
Sacrificial procedure
Procedure of the Asham
Subtypes of Sacrifices listed
זֹאת תּוֹרַת
Ohel Moed vs. Har Sinai
Supplement to Shemot 29
The laws of Vayikra 6-7 supplement the laws regarding the Miluim 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 of the Miluim and focus on laws governing the individual's bringing of sacrifices throughout the generations
