Parasha Summary
Parashat Vayikra introduces the laws of korbanot (sacrifices) in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). It details various offerings: the olah (burnt offering), mincha (meal offering), shelamim (peace offering), chatat (sin offering), and asham (guilt offering). Each serves a unique spiritual purpose—atonement, thanksgiving, or voluntary devotion. The parasha emphasizes precise procedures, highlighting the Kohen's role and the importance of intention (kavanah). Orthodox interpretation views korbanot as a means to draw closer to Hashem, with their underlying principles remaining relevant even after the Temple's destruction, as prayer substitutes sacrifices. The opening word "Vayikra" (with a small aleph) signifies humility, teaching that divine communication requires human humility.
