Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'male without blemish' mean in Leviticus 1:10?
A: The phrase 'male without blemish' means that the animal brought as a burnt offering (olah) must be a perfect male with no physical defects. This is explained in the Talmud (Zevachim 35b) and by Rashi, who states that any disqualifying blemish would invalidate the sacrifice. The Torah emphasizes this standard to show the importance of giving our best to Hashem.
Q: Why does the verse specify sheep or goats for the burnt offering?
A: The verse specifies sheep or goats because these were common domesticated animals in ancient Israel, making them accessible for sacrifices. The Rambam (Hilchos Maaseh HaKorbanos 1:14) explains that these animals were chosen for their availability and symbolic value—representing submission and devotion, fitting for a burnt offering that is entirely consumed on the altar.
Q: What is the significance of a burnt offering (olah) in Judaism?
A: The burnt offering (olah) is significant because it is entirely dedicated to Hashem, with no part consumed by humans. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 7:3) teaches that the olah represents complete devotion and atonement. Unlike other sacrifices, it is burned in its entirety on the altar, symbolizing total commitment to serving G-d.
Q: How does Leviticus 1:10 apply to us today without the Temple?
A: Although we no longer bring animal sacrifices, the principle of giving our best to Hashem still applies. The Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:32) explains that prayer and Torah study now replace sacrifices. Just as the animal had to be unblemished, we should strive to serve Hashem with sincerity and wholeheartedness in our daily lives.
Q: Why does the Torah require a male animal for the burnt offering?
A: The Torah requires a male animal for the burnt offering because males were traditionally seen as more valuable for sacrificial purposes, symbolizing strength and completeness. Rashi (on Leviticus 1:3) notes that this aligns with the idea of offering something precious. However, other sacrifices (like peace offerings) could include females, showing different symbolic meanings for different offerings.
Source and Context
The verse (Vayikra 1:10) is part of the Torah's detailed instructions regarding the korban olah (burnt offering) in the Book of Vayikra (Leviticus). It specifies the requirements for an offering brought from the flock—either sheep or goats—emphasizing that it must be a male without blemish.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi (Vayikra 1:10) explains that the phrase "מִן־הַכְּשָׂבִים אוֹ מִן־הָעִזִּים" ("of the sheep or of the goats") teaches that both sheep and goats are equally valid for the olah offering. He further notes that the requirement for the animal to be "זָכָר תָּמִים" ("a male without blemish") excludes females and any animal with physical defects, as derived from earlier verses (Vayikra 1:3).
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot (Laws of Sacrificial Procedure 1:14), the Rambam (Maimonides) elaborates that the requirement for an unblemished male animal reflects the principle of hidur mitzvah (beautifying the commandment). Since the korban represents a person's devotion to Hashem, it must be of the highest quality, symbolizing the worshiper's wholehearted commitment.
Midrashic Insight
The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 3:5) connects the term "תָּמִים" ("without blemish") to spiritual wholeness. Just as the animal must be physically perfect, the one bringing the offering should strive for moral and spiritual integrity. The Midrash teaches that Hashem desires not only external compliance but also inner sincerity in divine service.
Halachic Implications
Symbolic Meaning
The Kli Yakar (Vayikra 1:10) suggests that the male animal represents strength and leadership, alluding to the need for a person to take an active role in serving Hashem. The unblemished state symbolizes purity of heart and the rejection of moral flaws in one's spiritual journey.