Weekly Torah portion
Parascha Bechukotai בחוקתי
Leviticus (Wajikra) · Leviticus 26:3-27:34
„In My Statutes"
Summary
The portion begins with a profound promise of blessing for the Jewish people if they follow G"d's laws. These rewards include agricultural abundance, peace in the land, and the Divine Presence dwelling among the people, emphasizing the covenant between G"d and Israel.
A significant and sobering section known as the Tochacha (admonition) follows, detailing the consequences of turning away from the commandments. Despite the severity of these warnings, the section concludes with the promise that G"d will never fully forsake His people due to the eternal covenant with the Patriarchs.
The final part of the portion and the book discusses various types of consecrations, including voluntary vows and the tithing of animals. It establishes the rules for how individuals can dedicate their property or value to the Sanctuary, ending the book of Leviticus on a note of sanctity.
People
Moses
The leader who received these statutes from G"d on Mount Sinai to deliver to the Israelites.
The Patriarchs
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, whose covenant with G"d ensures the ultimate survival of the Jewish people.
The Children of Israel
The entire nation addressed by these laws, who are called to live holy lives in their land.
The Kohanim
The priests responsible for managing the consecrated gifts and tithes brought to the Tabernacle.
Key commandments (mitzvot)
Valuation of People · Leviticus 27:2
The laws concerning the fixed monetary values one must pay if they vow to give their own 'value' or another's to the Sanctuary.
Redeeming Consecrated Property · Leviticus 27:15
The procedure for a person to buy back a field or house they have previously dedicated to G"d.
The Animal Tithe · Leviticus 27:32
The requirement to set aside every tenth clean animal born in a herd or flock as holy to G"d.
Substitution of Sanctified Animals · Leviticus 27:33
The prohibition against attempting to swap a holy animal for another, even if the second one is better.
Full text
Quiz & badge
Answer every question correctly to earn the badge.
1. What is the primary condition for receiving the blessings mentioned at the start of the portion?
2. What is the collective name for the section of warnings and consequences?
3. According to the laws of tithing, which animal becomes holy?
4. How does the book of Leviticus conclude?