Humble Sacrifice – Parshas Vayikra 5773
The Midrash and many commentators start off the parsha and the sefer of Vayikra, discussing the virtue of humility. Rabbeinu Bechaya had a custom of starting each parsha and speech that he wrote with a verse that ties into and summarized the entire parsha or topic (see Kad Hakemach). He begins Vayikra with Mishlei (22:4) “One who is modest achieves: fear of God, wealth, honor and life.” Modesty is wonderful but what does this have to do with Vayikra?
Worthy Prophet
The Torah tells us that Moshe was the most humble man to ever live. What is interesting is that our parsha begins where Moshe had to be called by Hashem to enter the Ohel Moed because he was reluctant to do so without the express command of Hashem (Rabbeinu Bechaya). Additionally, the first word of Vayikra has a small alef at its end. Why is this? When God calls to an unworthy prophet such as Bilaam, the verse reads, “Vayikar” the first four letters without an alef at the end. This hints to the word keri, which means haphazard, showing that God viewed the prophet as lacking the virtues that were expected of him. When God called to a righteous prophet He used the word, “Vayikra” which was spelled in full to signify an expression of love, care and individual appreciation towards the prophet. Moshe was reluctant to use the word Vayikra in reference to himself but yet he was unable to change the Torah’s text, and so instead he wrote the alef in a smaller font (Baal HaTurim). The result was an even greater memorialization of Moshe’s humility! This is a beautiful lesson, but once again, we must ask, what is it doing here? What does this have to do with our parsha?
Karban Sacrifice
The theme of Vayikra is that of sacrificial offerings. When the Jews wished to serve Hashem in the Tabernacle or Temple they brought sacrifices for sins, thanks and holiday occurrences. The purpose of the sacrifices was not simply to pay the money for an animal or other item and then leave. Rather, the goal was for one to be inspired to grow. Coming to the majestic and royal palace of God was awe-inspiring and uplifting. You used one specific door to enter and made sure to leave from a different door to show that we were looking for change and growth.
Being in the Mishkan and offering a sacrifice instilled an awe and love of God that was powerful and long lasting. This is the goal of the karban experience. One who left inspired left with a feeling of the greatness of Hashem and the frailty of man. Man was truly humbled by the experience. This is the connection between our parsha and the theme of humility. The entire goal of karbanos was to help man rise above personal ego and to commit himself to the true service of Hashem with vigor and deep humility.