Leviticus 9:1-11:47
The Mishkan is inaugurated with joy and divine fire, marking a climactic moment in Israel’s spiritual journey. Yet celebration is shattered by the sudden death of Nadav and Avihu, revealing the peril of approaching the sacred without restraint. The parashah confronts the tension between intimacy with God and reverent boundaries.
By Yael Shahar
Parashat Shmini: What was the crime of Nadav and Avihu, who were consumed by divine fire while offering incense? It turns out that by comparing this incident with a later one, in which Moshe strikes a rock to bring forth water, we can learn a lot about miracles, holiness, and leadership.
In Education, Halacha, Parashat HaShavua and Parashat Shemini
Kosher animals, as is well known, can be identified by two simanim (physical signs). They must chew their cud, and their hooves must be wholly cloven. (2) In order to be kosher, the animal must possess both simanim. The Torah goes out of its way to emphasize the fact that an animal in which only one sign is present cannot be considered kosher in any way.