Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Exodus 29:11 mean when it says to slaughter the bull 'before the Lord'?
A: The phrase 'before the Lord' means that the slaughter of the bull must take place in a designated holy area near the entrance of the Tent of Meeting (Mishkan). Rashi explains that this refers to the north side of the altar, which was the proper place for slaughtering certain sacrifices (Zevachim 5:1).
Q: Why was the bull slaughtered at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting?
A: The slaughter at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting emphasized the sacred nature of the act. The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot 5:1) teaches that sacrifices must be performed in a designated holy space to maintain the proper reverence and connection to Hashem. The entrance symbolized the transition between the mundane and the holy.
Q: What can we learn from Exodus 29:11 about serving Hashem today?
A: Although we no longer bring animal sacrifices, the verse teaches us the importance of approaching divine service with proper intention and in a designated holy space. Just as the slaughter had to be done in a specific, sanctified location, our prayers and mitzvot today should also be performed with focus and in appropriate settings (Talmud Berachot 6a).
Q: Why was a bull specifically chosen for this sacrifice?
A: The bull was chosen because it represents strength and atonement. Rashi (on Leviticus 4:3) explains that the bull was often brought as a sin offering for communal or leadership transgressions, symbolizing the need for humility and repentance even among the most powerful.
Q: How does this verse connect to the broader context of Exodus 29?
A: Exodus 29 describes the consecration of the Kohanim (priests). The slaughter of the bull (verse 11) was part of the inauguration process, where its blood was used to sanctify the altar (verse 12) and its meat was partly burned and partly eaten by the Kohanim (verses 13-14), symbolizing their dedication to divine service (Midrash Tanchuma, Tzav 14).
Context of the Verse
The verse (Shemot 29:11) is part of the instructions for the consecration of the Kohanim (priests) during the inauguration of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The slaughtering of the bullock is a key component of the sacrificial service, marking the beginning of the priestly dedication process.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) comments that the phrase "לִפְנֵי יְהוָה" ("before the Lord") indicates that the slaughter must take place specifically in the northern part of the courtyard of the Mishkan, as this area was designated for slaughtering most sacrifices (based on Vayikra 1:11). The location is significant because it reflects the sanctity and order of the sacrificial service.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides) in Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot (Laws of Sacrificial Procedure) emphasizes that the slaughter must be performed with proper intent (kavanah) for the sake of the sacrifice. The act is not merely a physical ritual but requires spiritual focus, as it is done "before the Lord."
Symbolism of the Bullock
The Midrash (Tanchuma, Tzav 14) explains that the bullock represents the yetzer hara (evil inclination), as the word "פָּר" (bullock) is linguistically linked to "פְּרִי" (fruitful or multiplying). The slaughter of the bullock symbolizes the subduing of one's base desires in service of Hashem.
Significance of the Location
Spiritual Lessons
The verse underscores the principle that serving Hashem requires both physical action and spiritual mindfulness. Just as the slaughter had to be performed in a specific location with proper intent, our mitzvot today must be carried out with dedication and awareness of their Divine purpose.