Parashat Emor 5784

by Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields

The name of our Torah reading this week, Emor, means speak.  God tells Moses to speak to the priests, the sons of Aaron. There are many different instructions that Moses will be sharing, as God’s messenger to both the priests, and to B’nai Yisrael, the children of Israel. The ultimate goal is the pursuit of holiness, which was the name of last week’s Torah reading, Kedoshim. Leviticus chapter 21, verse 6 states, “They shall be holy to their God and not profane the name of their God;  for they offer the Lord’s gifts, the food of their God, and so must be holy.”  We need to be holy in all we say; all we do and all we eat. Every interaction should be done for the goal of bringing holiness and Godliness in our daily lives. Therefore, let us all think before we speak – 

Is it True?

Is it Helpful?

Am I the one to say it? What are the Intentions and Impact?

Is it Necessary, Now?

Is it Kind?

Kol Yisrael Arevim Zeh Ba’Zeh – All the people of Israel are responsible for one another.