share torah logo

Leviticus 14:30 - Poverty's acceptable offering?

Leviticus 14:30 - ויקרא 14:30

Hebrew Text

וְעָשָׂה אֶת־הָאֶחָד מִן־הַתֹּרִים אוֹ מִן־בְּנֵי הַיּוֹנָה מֵאֲשֶׁר תַּשִּׂיג יָדוֹ׃

English Translation

And he shall offer one of the turtledoves, or of the young pigeons, such as his means permit;

Transliteration

Ve'asa et ha'echad min hat'orim o min bnei hayona me'asher tasig yado.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְעָשָׂ֤ה אֶת־הָֽאֶחָד֙ מִן־הַתֹּרִ֔ים א֖וֹ מִן־בְּנֵ֣י הַיּוֹנָ֑ה מֵאֲשֶׁ֥ר תַּשִּׂ֖יג יָדֽוֹ׃
וְעָשָׂ֤ה אֶת־הָֽאֶחָד֙ מִן־הַתֹּרִ֔ים א֖וֹ מִן־בְּנֵ֣י הַיּוֹנָ֑ה מֵאֲשֶׁ֥ר תַּשִּׂ֖יג יָדֽוֹ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Source and Context

The verse (Vayikra 5:7) appears in the context of the korban oleh v'yored (the sliding-scale offering), which varies based on the financial means of the individual bringing the sacrifice. If one cannot afford a sheep, they may bring two turtledoves or young pigeons instead.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Vayikra 5:7) clarifies that the phrase "מֵאֲשֶׁר תַּשִּׂיג יָדוֹ" ("such as his means permit") teaches that the individual must bring the offering according to their financial capability. The Torah accommodates those with limited means, ensuring that even the poor can achieve atonement. This reflects the principle of divine compassion in halacha.

Halachic Implications (Rambam)

Rambam (Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot 3:1-2) elaborates on the hierarchy of offerings:

  • A sheep is the preferred offering for those who can afford it.
  • If one cannot afford a sheep, two birds (turtledoves or young pigeons) suffice.
  • For those in extreme poverty, a meal offering (mincha) is permitted.

This demonstrates the Torah's sensitivity to economic disparity in avodat Hashem.

Symbolism of the Birds (Midrash)

The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 3:4) notes that turtledoves and pigeons symbolize different aspects of repentance:

  • Turtledoves are known for their loyalty (they mate for life), representing steadfast commitment to teshuvah.
  • Young pigeons are accessible even to the poor, emphasizing that sincere repentance is never beyond reach.

Practical Lessons

The Talmud (Chagigah 9b) derives from this verse that Hashem values mitzvot performed according to one's ability, whether small or great. This reinforces the principle of "לפום צערא אגרא" ("according to the effort is the reward"), teaching that sincerity, not monetary value, determines the merit of an offering.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Keritot 27b
The verse is discussed in the context of the offerings brought by those who cannot afford a lamb, highlighting the principle of affordability in sacrificial laws.
📖 Chullin 22a
Referenced in a discussion about the types of birds that are permissible for sacrifices, emphasizing the inclusion of turtledoves and young pigeons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Leviticus 14:30 mean when it mentions offering turtledoves or young pigeons?
A: Leviticus 14:30 discusses the offering a person brings after recovering from tzara'at (a spiritual skin affliction). The Torah allows for either a turtledove or a young pigeon, depending on what the person can afford. This teaches that Hashem considers the financial ability of each individual, as Rashi explains—He does not burden someone beyond their means.
Q: Why does the Torah specify two types of birds for the offering in Leviticus 14:30?
A: The Torah specifies turtledoves and young pigeons to accommodate different financial situations. Turtledoves were often more expensive, while pigeons were more accessible. The Talmud (Kritot 27b) teaches that the Torah provides options so that even those with limited means can fulfill their obligation without hardship.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Leviticus 14:30 about mitzvot (commandments)?
A: This verse teaches that mitzvot are meant to be accessible to everyone. The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot 14:1) emphasizes that the Torah considers a person's financial situation, showing that Hashem values sincere effort over the monetary value of the offering. This principle applies to many mitzvot—what matters is fulfilling them according to one's ability.
Q: How does Leviticus 14:30 apply to Jewish life today?
A: Although we no longer bring bird offerings, the principle remains relevant. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 5:6) highlights that Hashem desires the heart—meaning sincerity matters more than extravagance. Today, this teaches us to perform mitzvot and acts of kindness within our means, as long as we do them with proper intention.