Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that the priest sprinkles oil seven times?
A: The act of sprinkling oil seven times symbolizes completeness and spiritual purification. In Jewish tradition, the number seven represents wholeness (like the seven days of creation). Rashi explains that this sevenfold sprinkling demonstrates the thoroughness of the purification process for someone who had tzara'at (a spiritual skin affliction).
Q: Why does the priest use his right finger and left hand?
A: According to the Talmud (Menachot 11a), the right hand is generally used for sacred acts in the Temple service because it represents strength and importance. The oil is held in the left hand while the right finger sprinkles it, showing the careful balance between holding the sacred substance and performing the ritual action.
Q: What is the significance of performing this 'before the Lord'?
A: Doing this 'before the Lord' means the sprinkling was performed in a holy place where G-d's presence was felt, such as near the Sanctuary. The Rambam (Hilchot Tumat Tzara'at 11:5) explains that this emphasizes the spiritual nature of the purification process—it's not just a physical act, but one connected to divine service.
Q: Why is oil used in this purification process?
A: Oil represents holiness and consecration in Jewish tradition. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 15:2) connects oil to wisdom and spiritual refinement. Here, it serves as a physical medium for the person's return to purity, showing that their atonement is accepted.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have the Temple service, the principles remain relevant. The careful, deliberate actions teach us about the importance of sincerity in repentance (teshuvah). Just as the priest performed precise steps for purification, we too must approach self-improvement with focus and dedication, step by step.
Symbolism of the Sprinkling
The verse describes the priest sprinkling oil seven times before Hashem. Rashi (Vayikra 14:16) explains that the number seven corresponds to the seven days of creation, symbolizing that this purification process mirrors the Divine act of creation. The sprinkling represents renewal and restoration, as the metzora (afflicted person) is being spiritually rehabilitated.
The Right and Left Hands
The Torah specifies that the priest uses his right finger to sprinkle oil from his left hand. The Rambam (Hilchot Mechusrei Kaparah 3:7) notes that this reflects a balance of chessed (kindness, represented by the right) and gevurah</em (strength/judgment, represented by the left). The act demonstrates that Divine mercy tempers strict judgment in the purification process.
Seven Sprinklings
The Oil's Significance
The oil used is olive oil, which the Talmud (Menachot 53b) associates with wisdom (as olives produce light). The Kli Yakar (Vayikra 14:16) suggests this symbolizes that the purification process requires enlightenment and understanding of one's spiritual state.
Before Hashem
The phrase "before Hashem" is interpreted by the Sforno as requiring the sprinkling to be done specifically in the Temple courtyard where the Divine Presence was most manifest. This emphasizes that true purification comes through direct connection with the Divine.