Close To Torah

In this week’s Parsha Aharon HaKohen taught an eternal lesson for all generations. After Nadav and Avehu brought their firepans into the Kodesh HaKadoshim, they were punished by death from Hashem. This was supposed to be a most joyous day for Aharon and his wife and it turned into one of tragedy and mourning.

Chazal tell us that really Aharon has many valid things to say at that point. He would not have been blamed for opening his mouth and sharing his questions with Hashem on how such a terrible thing could have happened. Yet at this great moment of pain and confusion, Aharon conjured up the strength to take control and remain silent. “Vayidom Aharon, and Aharon was silent” (Vayikra 10:3). Rashi tells us that Aharon was rewarded for this in that the very next Parsha which contains the laws that outline the Kohen’s prohibition from drinking wine, were taught specifically to Aharon and not in the usual manner in which Moshe was the one who introduced them to Klal Yisrael.

The contrast of Aharon’s mourning and the prohibition of alcohol consumption has always perplexed me. Aharon and his family were then sitting as mourners and the last thing on their mind was alcohol consumption?

I believe that there is a powerful lesson here. The consumption of alcohol greatly impairs one’s ability to think rationally and it also pushes off one’s defences and frees up the tongue. People often become extremely verbal and expressive when they are under the influence, often saying regretful things. Alcohol represents the loss of personal control. The strength and character that Aharon displayed in his acceptance of Hashem’s decree was a most powerful display of deep connection and dedication to Hashem. Aharon’s conscience choice to remain silent and respectful towards Hashem’s actions was a most eloquent lesson and example for his family and Klal Yisrael.

Hashem gave Aharon the floor and asked him to carry on that message and teach the laws of self control for proper respect in the Beis HaMikdash. It was precisely because Aharon illustrated his proficiency and deep rooted expertise in self-control and respect for Hashem, that he was asked to teach it to the entire nation. Aharon taught them how when one stands before Hashem, he is prohibited from consuming beverages that throw off the proper level of respect and sensitivity needed for being in the holy Mikdash. Indeed, it is now understood how Aharon taught so many people to pursue and love peace. Self-control and thoughtful respect are healthy components for developing and nurturing relationships. May we all merit to gain inspiration from Aharon’s lessons.

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