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Leviticus 14:29 - Oil purifies, priest atones.

Leviticus 14:29 - ויקרא 14:29

Hebrew Text

וְהַנּוֹתָר מִן־הַשֶּׁמֶן אֲשֶׁר עַל־כַּף הַכֹּהֵן יִתֵּן עַל־רֹאשׁ הַמִּטַּהֵר לְכַפֵּר עָלָיו לִפְנֵי יְהוָה׃

English Translation

and the rest of the oil that is in the priest’s hand he shall put upon the head of him that is to be cleansed, to make atonement for him before the Lord.

Transliteration

Vehanotar min-hashemen asher al-kaf hakohen yiten al-rosh hamitaher lechaper alav lifnei Adonai.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְהַנּוֹתָ֗ר מִן־הַשֶּׁ֙מֶן֙ אֲשֶׁר֙ עַל־כַּ֣ף הַכֹּהֵ֔ן יִתֵּ֖ן עַל־רֹ֣אשׁ הַמִּטַּהֵ֑ר לְכַפֵּ֥ר עָלָ֖יו לִפְנֵ֥י יְהֹוָֽה׃
וְהַנּוֹתָ֗ר מִן־הַשֶּׁ֙מֶן֙ אֲשֶׁר֙ עַל־כַּ֣ף הַכֹּהֵ֔ן יִתֵּ֖ן עַל־רֹ֣אשׁ הַמִּטַּהֵ֑ר לְכַפֵּ֥ר עָלָ֖יו לִפְנֵ֥י יְהֹוָֽה׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Vayikra 14:29) appears in the Torah portion discussing the purification process of a metzora (one afflicted with tzara'at, often translated as leprosy). The verse describes the final step of the purification ritual, where the Kohen applies the remaining oil from his hand onto the head of the individual being cleansed, as an act of atonement before Hashem.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Vayikra 14:29) explains that the placement of the oil on the head of the metzora serves as a form of kaparah (atonement). He emphasizes that this act parallels the anointment of kings and Kohanim, symbolizing the restored spiritual status of the individual. The oil represents divine favor, and its application signifies the person's reintegration into the community after their period of isolation.

Rambam’s Perspective

In Hilchot Tumat Tzara’at (10:6), the Rambam (Maimonides) elaborates on the purification process, noting that the oil serves as a physical representation of spiritual renewal. The act of placing the oil on the head is a public declaration that the individual has repented from the sins (such as lashon hara, evil speech) that may have led to their affliction.

Midrashic Insights

  • The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 16:9) compares the oil to the anointing of Aharon as Kohen Gadol, suggesting that the metzora undergoes a symbolic consecration, returning them to a state of holiness.
  • Another interpretation in the Midrash links the oil to the light of Torah, implying that the afflicted person’s purification is tied to their renewed commitment to Torah study and mitzvot.

Symbolism of the Oil

Oil (shemen) in Jewish tradition often symbolizes wisdom, purity, and divine blessing (see Talmud, Menachot 85b). Its use here underscores that the atonement process is not merely physical but also spiritual, restoring the individual’s connection to Hashem.

Practical Halachic Implications

The Mishnah (Negaim 14:9) details the precise manner in which the Kohen applies the oil, ensuring it is done with intention (kavanah) for the sake of the mitzvah. This highlights the importance of proper ritual execution in achieving atonement.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Keritot 5a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the atonement process and the role of the priest in the purification ritual.
📖 Sotah 15b
The verse is cited in a broader discussion about the laws of purification and the significance of the oil in the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the oil symbolize in Leviticus 14:29?
A: In Leviticus 14:29, the oil symbolizes purification and divine favor. According to Rashi, the oil represents blessing and atonement, as it is used to spiritually cleanse the person who had tzara'at (a skin affliction often linked to spiritual causes). The act of placing the oil on the head signifies renewal and restoration before Hashem.
Q: Why does the priest put the leftover oil on the person's head?
A: The priest places the leftover oil on the person's head to complete the purification process, as taught in the Talmud (Arachin 16a). This act demonstrates that the person is now spiritually clean and has regained their status in the community. The oil serves as a visible sign of atonement and divine acceptance.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Leviticus 14:29 today?
A: Leviticus 14:29 teaches us the importance of spiritual renewal and the role of rituals in achieving closeness to Hashem. The Rambam (Hilchot Tumat Tzara'at) explains that the purification process reminds us to correct our ways and seek atonement. Today, we can apply this by reflecting on our actions and striving for teshuvah (repentance).
Q: How does the oil atone for the person in this verse?
A: The oil atones by serving as part of the purification ritual commanded by Hashem. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 16) explains that the oil, combined with the other steps of the process, helps remove the spiritual impurity caused by the affliction. It symbolizes Hashem's mercy and the person's renewed purity.
Q: Is the oil in Leviticus 14:29 the same as anointing oil used elsewhere in the Torah?
A: No, the oil in this verse is ordinary olive oil, not the special anointing oil (shemen hamishchah) used for consecrating vessels and priests (Exodus 30:22-33). Rashi clarifies that this oil is part of the purification process for someone with tzara'at and does not have the same sanctity as the anointing oil.