Sefer Vayikra, also known in English as “The Book
of Leviticus”, is the third of the “Five Books of Moses”
(Chamisha Chumshe Torah). Vayikra deals primarily with the rituals of
the kohen (priest) and the services to be performed in the Beis HaMikdash
(The Holy Sanctuary). Among these services are the many korbanos, offerings
to G-d, for atonement, sin, thanksgiving, etc.
The korbanos were chukim, commandments given by G-d without any rational
explanation. However, we can gain some insight into their spiritual
elements by relating them to the word korov which means “to bring
near”. In one sense, these offerings were meant to bring us nearer
to G-d. As a kohen, I find this Sefer Vayikra personally fascinating.
The Mishnah, in Pirke Avos (The Ethics of the Fathers), writes: “On
three things does the world rest: Torah, Avodah (service to G-d), and
Gemilut Chassidim (acts of lovingkindness).”
Since the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, we no longer
offer korbonos, but our prayers can serve as a substitue if performed
with the proper intention (kavanah). The study of Sefer Vayikra is only
the beginning of understanding the nature of our service to G-d.
