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Parshat Acharei Mot-Kedoshim
This week we have a double Torah portion “Acharei Mot – Kedoshim”, found in Leviticus 16:1 and 19:2. Acharei Mot means “after the death of” referring to the deaths of Aaron’s sons, Nadav and Avihu. Their deaths occurred during the inauguration of the Tabernacle (Mishkan) when Nadav and Avihu offered “unauthorized” (not from the Altar) fire before the L-rd. A fire that the L-rd did not request. The “unauthorized” fire, ZUR means, “to go astray, to turn aside, to be estranged.” After Aaron’s sons were consumed by a fire from the L-rd, Moses told Aaron that the L-rd said, “I will be sanctified in them that come near to me.” (Leviticus 10:3)
The second Torah portion, “Kedoshim,” means “holy ones” begins with the statement: “You shall be holy, for I, the L‑rd your G-d, am holy.” This introduction is followed by dozens of mitzvot (divine commandments addressing idolatry, charity, equal application of the law, keeping Shabbat, sexual morality, honesty in business, honoring one’s parents, and the sacredness of life) through which the Jewish people sanctify themselves and relate to the holiness of G‑d. Also, in this portion is the famous proclamation and cardinal principle of the Torah, according to Hillel, “Love your fellow as yourself.”
What do these two Torah portions, Acharei Mot and Kedoshim, tell us about Judaism’s teachings and beliefs on life and death?
Does Judaism have teachings and beliefs on the Afterlife? If so, what are they?
Come join us for Kabbalat Shabbat service and let’s get into it!
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