*Ox, Sheep & Goat*
In the Hebrew language, different animals are referred to by age-sensitive
descriptions. A newborn calf is an "Eigel;" a baby sheep, a "T'leh;" and a
young goat, a "Sair." Their grown up equivalents are "Shor," "Kesev" and
"Eiz."
In our Parsha, however, we find a break from this stylistic prose. In
detailing the requirements for certain animals to be fit for "Korbanot,"
sacrifices, the Torah states the following:
*"When an ox or a sheep or a goat is born, it shall remain under its mother
for seven days"* (Vayikra 22:27)
However, instead of using the terms appropriate for newborn animals, the
Torah refers to them by the names used in their full grown state. Instead
of "Eigel, Tleh and Sair" it says "Shor, Kesev and Eiz."
The Tzror Hamor offers a fascinating lesson from this small, yet important
detail.
By referring to newborn animals in full grown terms, the Torah is sharing
something very significant with us.
Animals, while serving many important roles in G‑d's plan for creation and
assisting human beings in their service of G‑d, have a built in ceiling in
their own personal growth.
An animal cannot deviate from its mission, but it also cannot evolve and
transform itself. This, says the Tzror Hamor, is what the Torah is
stressing.
On the other hand, in a human being's journey through life, yesterday's
accomplishments are not enough for today. Unlike an animal that remains on
the same spiritual plane throughout its existence, every person must change
and grow, elevating ourselves and our lives to achieve holiness and meaning.
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.*