|
Parsha
|
Acharei Mos
Parshas Acharei Mos begins with the laws of the Temple service for Yom Kippur. On this special day, G-d promises to forgive our sins if we repent sincerely. He erases our past misdeeds, and enables the world to endure by cleansing it of the damaging effects of sin. An essential part of the mystery of this day is the special Temple service, which can be performed only by the Kohen Gadol (High Priest). The Kohen Gadol would enter the Holy of Holies - the innermost chamber of the Temple, which contained the Ark of the Covenant - four times on Yom Kippur. The Torah warns that even the High Priest may not enter this sacred chamber at any other time.
In the absence of the Temple, our Sages teach us that our prayers take the place of the Temple service. In addition, studying the laws of the service and yearning for their return act provide some of the merit of the service itself.
The Parsha concludes with a listing of forbidden relationships, such as adultery and incest. The Torah exhorts the Jews to avoid the depraved practices of the Egyptians - whose land they have just left - and the Canaanites - whom they will encounter in the Promised Land. The Land will not tolerate immorality; by maintaining a life of holiness and purity, we will be able to live and prosper there.
In the absence of the Temple, our Sages teach us that our prayers take the place of the Temple service. In addition, studying the laws of the service and yearning for their return act provide some of the merit of the service itself.
The Parsha concludes with a listing of forbidden relationships, such as adultery and incest. The Torah exhorts the Jews to avoid the depraved practices of the Egyptians - whose land they have just left - and the Canaanites - whom they will encounter in the Promised Land. The Land will not tolerate immorality; by maintaining a life of holiness and purity, we will be able to live and prosper there.