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Exodus 29:3 - Unified offerings for divine service

Exodus 29:3 - שמות 29:3

Hebrew Text

וְנָתַתָּ אוֹתָם עַל־סַל אֶחָד וְהִקְרַבְתָּ אֹתָם בַּסָּל וְאֶת־הַפָּר וְאֵת שְׁנֵי הָאֵילִם׃

English Translation

And thou shalt put them into one basket, and bring them in the basket, with the bullock and the two rams.

Transliteration

Venatata otam al-sal echad vehikravta otam basal ve'et-hapar ve'et shnei ha'eylim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְנָתַתָּ֤ אוֹתָם֙ עַל־סַ֣ל אֶחָ֔ד וְהִקְרַבְתָּ֥ אֹתָ֖ם בַּסָּ֑ל וְאֶ֨ת־הַפָּ֔ר וְאֵ֖ת שְׁנֵ֥י הָאֵילִֽם׃
וְנָתַתָּ֤ אוֹתָם֙ עַל־סַ֣ל אֶחָ֔ד וְהִקְרַבְתָּ֥ אֹתָ֖ם בַּסָּ֑ל וְאֶ֨ת־הַפָּ֔ר וְאֵ֖ת שְׁנֵ֥י הָאֵילִֽם׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah

This verse (Exodus 29:3) appears in the context of the consecration of Aaron and his sons as Kohanim (priests) during the inauguration of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The verse describes the preparation of the offerings, including placing specific items—matzot, unleavened cakes, and unleavened wafers—into a single basket to be presented along with a bull and two rams.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Exodus 29:3) explains that the phrase "וְנָתַתָּ אוֹתָם עַל־סַל אֶחָד" ("And thou shalt put them into one basket") refers to the three types of unleavened bread mentioned earlier in the passage: matzot (unleavened loaves), chalot matzot (unleavened cakes mixed with oil), and rekikei matzot (unleavened wafers smeared with oil). These were all placed together in a single basket as part of the inauguration offerings.

Symbolism of the Basket

The Midrash (Tanchuma, Tzav 14) suggests that the use of one basket symbolizes unity and harmony among the Kohanim and the Jewish people. Just as the different types of bread are united in a single vessel, so too must the priests and the nation serve Hashem with a unified purpose.

Rambam's Halachic Perspective

In Hilchot Klei HaMikdash (Laws of Temple Vessels 2:4), the Rambam discusses the importance of the vessels used in the Mishkan and Beit HaMikdash. The basket mentioned here was likely made of fine materials, as all vessels used in divine service required craftsmanship and sanctity. The act of bringing the offerings in this basket emphasized the honor due to the mitzvah.

The Bull and the Rams

The verse concludes by mentioning the accompanying animals: "וְאֶת־הַפָּר וְאֵת שְׁנֵי הָאֵילִם" ("with the bullock and the two rams"). Rashi notes that these animals were central to the consecration process:

  • The bull served as a sin offering (Chatat) to atone for any inadvertent sins.
  • The two rams were used for different purposes—one as an Olah (burnt offering) and the other as the "ram of inauguration" (Ayil HaMiluim), whose blood was applied to Aaron and his sons.

Practical Lessons

The Sforno highlights that the meticulous arrangement of these offerings teaches the importance of order and precision in divine service. Just as the Kohanim had to follow exact procedures, we too must approach mitzvot with care and attention to detail.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of putting the offerings in one basket in Exodus 29:3?
A: According to Rashi, placing the meal offerings (minchah) in one basket symbolizes unity and completeness in serving Hashem. The single basket represents bringing all components together as part of the consecration service for the Kohanim (priests).
Q: Why does the verse mention a bullock and two rams along with the basket?
A: The bullock (par) and two rams (eilim) were key sacrifices for the inauguration of the Kohanim, as explained in the Talmud (Zevachim 20a). The bullock was a sin offering, while the rams were for elevation offerings (olah) and peace offerings (shelamim), each serving a distinct purpose in the consecration process.
Q: How does Exodus 29:3 relate to the broader context of the Torah portion?
A: This verse is part of the detailed instructions for consecrating Aharon and his sons as Kohanim (Shemot 29:1-37). The Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 4:12) explains that these rituals established the eternal sanctity of the priesthood, emphasizing the importance of proper preparation for divine service.
Q: What practical lesson can we learn today from the 'one basket' instruction?
A: The Midrash Tanchuma (Tetzaveh 10) teaches that just as the offerings were unified in one basket, our service to Hashem should be wholehearted and complete. This reminds us to approach mitzvot with unity of purpose, integrating all aspects of our being in divine service.
Q: Why were these specific animals chosen for the consecration service?
A: The Talmud (Chullin 11a) explains that bulls and rams were selected because they represent strength and leadership qualities appropriate for the Kohanim's role. The Netziv (Ha'amek Davar) adds that these animals symbolize the different aspects of atonement and dedication required for priestly service.