The Sedra Tetzaveh 5780

In this week’s portion, we are commanded to build the altar for incense. This vessel is unique because it is mentioned separately from the other Tabernacle furniture. We learn in the Talmud that Moshe actually received a secret from the Angel of Death: that incense could stop a plague. We see this later in the desert when Aaron runs into the crowd to stop the death toll. However, we must remember that Judaism is not a religion of magic elixirs. The Ramban explains that the altar was designed to bring honor to God. The incense stops a plague because it represents the people turning back to recognize and honor Hashem after a period of disobedience. It is that act of honoring the Divine that truly heals us and provides atonement for our community. Join me as we explore this beautiful concept of honor and sanctity. Shabbat Shalom!