Chai Alive!
The service of the Kohen Gadol on Yom Kippur is recounted in this week's Parsha in great detail. In his commentary, the Abarbanel sheds light on one of the most
intriguing elements of the day, the service of the two goats.
These animals were offered collectively, on behalf of the entire Jewish Nation. Two identical looking animals were chosen, one designated "For the Lord," the other, "For Azazel." While the first one was sacrificed on the Altar, the other was sent away to the desert.
In this unique service, the Abarbanel sees a very deep and symbolic expression of the fate of the Jewish People.
The animal offered on the altar "For the Lord" represents the times when Jewish People live closely connected to G‑d and His Torah, secure in their own land.
However, our actions and history have often led us astray. This is represented by the other animal sent off to the desert. The Jewish People during Exile are compared to the goat "For Azazel."
It is here the Abarbanel writes that we receive an extraordinary promise from G‑d.
Although we may be sent to the "desert" of Exile and encounter many challenging circumstances, we will remain strong and survive.
This is seen in the words of the verse, which states: "The goat upon which the lot 'For Azazel' came up, shall be placed while still alive, before the Lord." (Vayikra 16:10)
Even in the situation where we are described as "For Azazel," slated to be sent far away, we can rest assured that that Exile will not destroy us.
Rather, the Abarbanel says G‑d is promising us, "Ya'amod Chai Lifnei Hashem," we will remain alive while committed to our faith, to G‑d and to the Torah until the time of the Redemption.
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.