Parashat Acharei Mot (after the death) Leviticus 16:1 - 18:30
HafTorah Samuel 1 20:18 - 42
The Scapegoat 1854 William Holman Hunt
Greetings Chaverim!
I hope you have had a wonderful week as the sun continues to shine on the Gulf Coast! With Passover now in our rear-view mirror and as we count the Omer in anticipation of Shavuot, we return to our regular Torah readings in the Book of Leviticus.
This Shabbat, we read and study the last two chapters (17 and 18) of the portion of Acharei Mot, the same reading as in the afternoon (Mincha) service of Yom Kippur always read just prior to reading the Book of Jonah. For me, it is one of the most difficult of readings as it discusses forbidden moral practices, most of which are obvious, others linked to the practices of those outside the Hebrew nation, and others just plain embarrassing! In my old shul in New Jersey, the congregation often sought out a young teenager to read these aliyot because there would be no chance of their ever considering any of the practices that are detailed.
However, as we think about the meaning of these passages, new interpretations can be gleaned. Rather than shuddering (or chuckling) about exposing the "nakedness" of those close to us, lets substitute "vulnerability" for "nakedness". Then instead of being forbidden to expose their bodies, we are commanded not to expose their vulnerability. As Rabbi Zoe Klein teaches us "let us clothe our loved ones with kindness and let us wrap them in blessing as with a garment". In reality, we must apply this practice to all, not just to our closest friends and family. This will best prepare us for next week's study of Kedoshim (holiness) and the world will be a much better and kinder place for it!
Please join me in-person or virtually on zoom tonight at 7:30 pm and tomorrow at 9:30 am to study and pray together.
Shabbat Shalom,
Ron Becker,
Spiritual Leader
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