Shemini
Heat rises and flames naturally ascend; yet, in this week's Parsha we learn of a fire exhibiting very different properties.
The inauguration of the Mishkan, the Tabernacle, where the Jewish people would interact with G‑d, culminated with a most extraordinary event.
"A fire went forth from before G‑d... the people saw and sang..." (Vayikra 9:14)
The Abarbanel, in his commentary to the Parsha, searches for the meaning of this miraculous display. Why did G‑d specifically choose fire to descend from heaven, defying the natural order, to symbolize His presence among the Jewish People?
In our estimation, fire should always rise, going higher and higher; but this is exactly the idea that G‑d wanted to dispel.
This is a timeless and deeply personal lesson the Abarbanel offers. Often people wonder about the importance of their small individual actions. Does G‑d really care about my small isolated choices and decisions?
This is what the descending fire symbolizes.
Although, we may not always feel worthy for G‑d's attention, and we may think His focus is with greater and more spiritual entities than the struggles of one human being, the message from this event is the opposite. G‑d is always with us, caring for our smallest of concerns, whatever they are and wherever we may be.
Shabbat Shalom!
Portuguese Jewish history is a rich tapestry of accomplishment and challenge spanning the centuries. Portugal's shores have produced and housed some of our greatest Rabbis and leaders. From statesman, leader and scholar Rabbi Don Yitzchak Abarbanel to Shulchan Aruch author Rabbi Yosef Karo in the 15th century through to the Lubavitcher Rebbe's time in Lisbon in 1941, Portugal has enabled tremendous developments in strengthening community and Torah.
It is in recognition of the timeless nature of these commitments, and in honor of all of those Jews who have called Portugal home through times of brilliance and darkness, that these Torah insight's from Portugal's great Rabbis is produced - here in Portugal.
Special thanks to Rabbi Shlomo Pereira for the Portuguese translation.