The olah – burnt offering – described in parashat Tzav is understood by our sages to embody the potential to expiate the sin of doubtful thoughts of the heart, those thoughts which can distance us from G-d and lead us to transgression. An untoward thought is a most serious spiritual lapse, even if it does not ultimately lead to an ill-conceived action. The inclusion of the olah in the daily Tamid service of the Holy Temple attests to the centrality of the doubtful thoughts of the heart in the human condition and our need to vanquish the doubt and draw near to G-d.
Tzav (Leviticus 6:1-8:36)
Parashat Tzav is read on Shabbat:
II Adar 13, 5771/March 19, 2011
Sacred to the memory of Udi, Ruth, Yoav, Elad and Hadas Fogel. May G-d avenge their blood.
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