Weekly Torah portion
Parascha Achrei Mot אחרי מות
Leviticus (Wajikra) · Leviticus 16:1-18:30
„After the death"
Summary
The portion begins by addressing the solemn Yom Kippur service, detailing how the High Priest enters the Holy of Holies to achieve atonement for the nation. It introduces the unique ritual of the two goats, one for G"d and one sent to Azazel, symbolizing the removal of the people's transgressions.
The text continues with laws regarding sacrifices, strictly prohibiting the offering of animals outside the Tabernacle to prevent idolatry. It also establishes the fundamental prohibition against consuming blood, emphasizing that the life force of a creature resides within its blood.
Finally, the portion outlines specific laws concerning sanctity in human relationships and family life. It lists forbidden unions and warns the Israelites not to follow the immoral practices of the Egyptians or Canaanites, ensuring the land remains holy.
People
Aaron
The first High Priest who performed the sacred service to atone for the people's sins.
Nadab
One of the two sons of Aaron whose death served as the catalyst for these instructions.
Abihu
The other son of Aaron who died when bringing an unauthorized fire before G"d.
Moses
The prophet through whom G"d communicated the complex laws of the Tabernacle and morality.
Key commandments (mitzvot)
The Yom Kippur Service · Leviticus 16:3
The High Priest must perform a specific set of rituals once a year to atone for the sanctuary and the people.
Fasting on Yom Kippur · Leviticus 16:29
Every individual is commanded to afflict their soul by abstaining from food and drink on the tenth day of the seventh month.
Prohibition of Consuming Blood · Leviticus 17:10
It is strictly forbidden to eat the blood of any animal or bird, as the blood represents the soul.
Covering the Blood · Leviticus 17:13
After slaughtering a wild animal or bird, one must cover its blood with earth or dust.
Laws of Forbidden Unions · Leviticus 18:6
Individuals are prohibited from engaging in intimate relations with specific close relatives or forbidden partners.
Full text
Quiz & badge
Answer every question correctly to earn the badge.
1. On which day of the year does the High Priest enter the Holy of Holies?
2. What must be done with the blood of a hunted animal or bird?
3. The portion warns the Israelites not to follow the ways of which two nations?
4. Why is the consumption of blood forbidden in the Torah?