After concluding their discussion about the burial spot of Moses, which could not be found, the rabbis look to other ways that G-d punishes transgressions and rewards righteousness. A particularly interesting section of this conversation regards different ways that G-d blesses us - for example, by consoling mourners with G-d's presence. G-d also clothes the naked with animal skins (Genesis 3:21, where G-d in fact makes clothes for Adam and Eve of animal skins). The rabbis want to know whether or not the skins of dead animals or the wool of animals is used to form clothing.
A new Mishna teaches us about when the sota actually drinks the bitter water. We learn that the sota's husband brings the meal-offering an Egyptian wicker basket of palm leaves which is placed in the sota's hands. Carrying this basket is intended to tire her. If she is fatigued, she might end the sota process early by 'admitting' her transgression and not destroying G-d's name in the water without reason. Meal-offerings usually are offered in service vessels; in this case, they are only transferred to a service vessel at the end of the process. Meal-offerings require wheat, oil, and frankincense. This offering uses barley, the food of animals and not people.
The Gemara begins with an examination of why the sota is fatigued. Is this meant to hurt her or benefit her? Does G-d punish those who transgress or protect those who are righteous? How can G-d do both?
The Gemara quotes one baraita after another regarding service vessels. Which baskets can be used? Which vessels can be used? Are only silver or gold permissible, or are wood/ceramic materials ever appropriate? Where are the offerings placed? Is all of the offering burnt, or is some of it consumed by the priests? Is only a handful of meal-offering actually offered? Do we sanctify items twice - once upon entering the Temple and again at the actual offering?
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment