purim v’parshah tzav .. v’pesach

Today is Purim. Yay! This morning we read Megillah Esther again and also partake of a festive meal before mid-day (which isn’t necessarily the same as noon) as it’s erev shabbat and that makes things a little more complicated than “normal” (an opinion, [doesn’t play nice in firefox]). In lieu of Mishloach Manot, I am donating additional tzeddekah this year. I will fulfil the mishloach manot obligation but I’m not sending out trillions of packages. It’s silly and since most of us have more than enough, a waste.

This week we learn Parshah Tzav, Vayikra (Leviticus) 6:1-8:36. As we’re still in learning all of the things a Cohen must do, in this parshah we continue to learn about the korbanot and that the fire (aish) must always be kept burning. After spending seven days in the sanctuary, Moses annoints Aaron and his sons into the priesthood.

Don’t hurt me, but Pesach is coming. Starting 30 days before Pesach we start to review the laws regarding this holiday. A schedule from 2005 may be found here and here.

A Freilechen Purim!

שׁבּת שׁלום