The Nature of Sin

 Shabbat Shalom from Rabbi Eitan Weiner-Kaplow

 

March 19-20, 2021 / 7 Nisan 5781

Shabbat Vayikra

Torah: Leviticus 1:1 - 5:26

Haftarah: Isaiah 43:21 - 44:23

 

“The Nature of Sin”

 

Dear Friends,

 

How can we better understand the nature of sin?  Our Jewish tradition helps us in this week’s Torah portion, the beginning of the third book of the Torah, Leviticus or Vayikra. The book has great concern for the duties and responsibilities of the priesthood of Israel, among them offering sacrifice to God to absolve one of sinful acts.  There appear to be two, if not three categories to consider.  First are sins between ourselves and God – adam laMakom. Forgiveness comes through sacrifice and worship.  Second are sins between ourselves and other human beings – adam l’chaveiro.  Forgiveness comes through apology and returning to better ways of behavior.  Third, are sins between people and themselves – adam l’atzmo. Forgiveness comes through introspection and growth.

 

Our tradition recognizes that everyone makes mistakes and therefore, everyone can repent and live according to their highest selves.

 

Shabbat Shalom. Stay safe and Zay Gezunt – Be Healthy,

 

Rabbi Eitan Weiner-Kaplow