PARSHAH TAZRIA-METZORAH

This week we have a double Torah portion, Tazria – Metzorah, found in Leviticus Chapters 12–14.  Tazria meaning “conceives”, explains that a woman who has given birth must go through a process of purification.  This double portion also teaches us about people, clothing, and homes that are afflicted with tzara’at (a skin disease or infection often mistranslated as leprosy).

Tzara’at is the physical result of a spiritual malady that places individuals in a state of ritual impurity causing them to reside outside of the community. To regain spiritual purification, one must examine their speech and/or any arrogance, do teshuvah, and undergo ritual purification with the High Priest.  All of this relates to the laws of “tumah v’taharah”, ritual impurity and purity with the goal to overcome impurity.

Metzora, (infectious skin disease) refers to a person afflicted by a spiritual malady which places him or her in a state of ritual impurity.  One recovers from metzora through a purification procedure administered by the Kohein (priest).  One’s house can also be afflicted and must be purified or demolished.

• What does “conceiving” and giving birth have to do with impurity and purity?

• Is there any connection between “conceiving” and tzara’at?

• Why can’t one who has tzara’at (and is impure) quarantine inside their home rather than outside the community?

• Do any of these things relate to us in our daily lives?

• Please come join us and let’s get into it!

Rabbi Scott is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.