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May 2, 2024

Parshas Achrei Mos Summary

Parshas Achrei Mos Summary

The Parsha commences with the Kohen's practice on Yom Kippur. Following the death of Aaron's sons, G-d instructed Moshe to relay to Aaron the prohibition of entering the Most Holy Place (קֹדֶשׁ הַקֳּדָשִׁים‎, Kodesh Ha-Kodashim) at will, as it could result in death. Aaron was to enter only after specific preparations and at designated times. While taking two goats to the Tabernacle entrance, Aaron cast lots to determine one for the Lord and one for Azazel. The goat assigned to the Lord was presented as a sin offering, while the other was sent off a cliff. Aaron then placed glowing coals and incense before the Most Holy Place. He sprinkled bull's and goat's blood over and in front of the Ark to cleanse the Israelites' uncleanness and transgressions.

Additionally, Aaron applied the blood to the altar for purification and consecration. Placing his hands on the live goat, Aaron confessed the sins of the Israelites, transferring them onto the goat's head. Subsequently, the goat was sent to the wilderness by a designated man to bear their sins to a remote area. Hashem established a perpetual law: on the tenth day of the seventh month, Jews were to observe self-denial and refrain from work (Yom-Kippur). Following this, the Parsha delves into what scholars call the Holiness Code. God prohibited the Israelites from slaughtering oxen, sheep, or goats for sacrifice without presenting them at the Tabernacle. Those who violated this rule faced excision.

Additionally, consuming blood was strictly prohibited, with God emphasizing adherence to His laws and repudiation of the practices of the Egyptians or Canaanites. God prohibited any Israelite from various immoral practices. These prohibitions encompassed actions such as uncovering the nakedness of close relatives, marrying specific relatives simultaneously, engaging in sexual relations during particular periods, and participating in offerings to Molech. Additionally, God's laws explicitly forbid certain sexual behaviors, including same-sex relations and bestiality. Violation of these laws resulted in being cut off from the community.