Vayikra
by Rabbi Yaakov Menken
"... and the priest shall offer it in its entirety upon the altar, an
elevation-offering, by fire, for a 'pleasing scent' to G-d." [1:9]
The Chidushei HaRim offers an understanding of the sacrifice as a 'pleasing
scent' to G-d. He explains that a "Reyach," or scent, is something that is
recognized or detected far away. Thus anything that one can sense or feel
from far off is called a "Reyach."
A sacrifice must serve as a messenger of good, meaning that through the
sacrifice one can immediately sense that good deeds will be done henceforth
by the one giving the offering. This, says the Chidushei HaRim, is the main
purpose of a sacrifice - that repentance bring the person to better actions
in the future. Without that, HaShem, blessed be He, has already said, "Why
do I need all your sacrifices?" [Isaiah 1] It is the early indication of
future deeds that makes a sacrifice a "pleasing scent."
Today, our prayers serve in place of sacrifices. These too must bring us to
repentance and prod us to do better actions in the future. Every one of us
(save angels and those who have never been to synagogue) has gone to
synagogue and said the words, but has not really gained from the experience.
"Dry ritual" is not sufficient! Every prayer is an opportunity for growth,
one that will indicate "good deeds to follow." Let's not miss that opportunity!
Text Copyright © 1996 Rabbi Yaakov Menken and Project Genesis, Inc.
The author is the Director of Project Genesis.
