March 24, 2019 · 19:24:29
Part I.Torah of KohanimEVERYONE IS JEALOUS OF RABBI MILLERInParshas Tzavwe continue our encounter with theavodahof thekohanim, the ones privileged to stand in the service of Hashem in the Beis Hamikdash. And we find ourselves inundated with the especial attention given tokohanim. Laws upon laws for the descendants of Aharon that place them on a pedestal; rules meant to regulate the behavior of the aristocracy. Now, I don’t want to make you uncomfortable or jealous of me [The Rav was a kohen], but week after week, inVayikra, Tzav, Shmini, and actually in most ofSefer Vayikra,we become more and more impressed with the great honor and privilege accorded to thekohanim.I know that most of us here have already accepted the maxim of democracy, equality for everyone, so you don’t want to think too much about it, but the truth is when theBnei Leviwere chosen to be theKohanei Hashem, it was a great pride for them. Thekohenwalked with a swagger; he was on top of the world! It wasn’t just a matter of being called to officiate at apidyon habenor to benefit from theterumosand othermatnos kehunah.It was a great prerogative, a great privilege, to be the servant of Hashem in His house. And I have no doubt that the rest of theAm Yisroelwere disappointed and jealous. Thebechorim,who had lost this privilege, surely were jealous, but I’m sure thateveryonelooked at thekohanimwith envy.TRESPASSING ON HOLY GROUNDSTo be akohenwas an eternal privilege of closeness to Hashem. והיו לי הלויים – “And the