Parasha Summary
Parashat Chukat begins with the laws of the parah adumah (red heifer), a quintessential chok (divine decree beyond human comprehension) that purifies those contaminated by contact with the dead. Miriam dies, and the miraculous well sustaining Israel in her merit disappears. The people complain about water, and Moshe strikes the rock instead of speaking to it, leading to his and Aharon’s punishment of not entering Eretz Yisrael. Aharon dies, and Elazar succeeds him. The people mourn Aharon, and fiery serpents punish their complaints; a copper serpent heals those who repent. Victories over Sichon and Og secure land east of the Jordan. The parashah emphasizes faith, divine justice, and leadership transitions.
