Parasha Summary
Parashat Tazria (Vayikra 12-13) primarily discusses the laws of ritual impurity related to childbirth and tzara'at (often mistranslated as leprosy). A woman who gives birth enters a state of tumah (impurity) for varying durations depending on the child's gender, followed by a period of taharah (purification) involving korbanot (sacrifices). The parasha then details the intricate laws of tzara'at—affecting skin, garments, or homes—which require examination by a kohen. Tzara'at is understood by Chazal as a spiritual affliction, often resulting from lashon hara (evil speech) or arrogance. The kohen's role is central in diagnosing and declaring purity or impurity, emphasizing the connection between physical symptoms and spiritual rectification.
