Thought of the Week: Vayakheil - Pekudei - 5778

ACCEPTING THE AXIOM

This Shabbat, we will be reading a special section that introduces the laws of the Red Cow.  The ashes of this cow were used to purify individuals who had become spiritually contaminated, or TAMEH.

The process of this purification is considered beyond logic and is described in the Talmud as a quintessential decree.

In addition, the service was unique since it was not performed in the Beit Hamikdash itself, but rather on the Mount of Olives while facing the Temple.

As a nation, we always have our hearts and minds towards the Beit Hamikdash.  Not a day goes by with It not being mentioned in our Teffilot.  At the same time, we face many unanswered questions and decrees that we, as a nation of faith, must accept.

The service of the Parah Adumah (Red Cow) symbolizes our journey, one of acceptance despite the difficulties, as we face the Temple every day.

It is essential to hear the reading and the message of the Red Cow as we prepare for the Redemption of Pesach and the future redemption as well.

Shabbat Shalom