Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 23:17 mean?
A: Leviticus 23:17 describes the mitzvah (commandment) of bringing the 'Two Loaves' (Shtei HaLechem) as an offering on Shavuot. These loaves were made from fine flour, baked with leaven (chametz), and waved before Hashem as a thanksgiving offering for the wheat harvest. Unlike most flour offerings in the Temple, which were unleavened, these loaves were specifically required to be chametz, symbolizing a unique aspect of the Shavuot offering.
Q: Why were the Two Loaves on Shavuot made with leaven (chametz)?
A: According to Rashi and the Talmud (Menachot 58b), most flour offerings in the Temple were unleavened (matzah) because leaven represents the yetzer hara (evil inclination). However, the Two Loaves on Shavuot were specifically commanded to be chametz to teach that even our material desires (symbolized by leaven) can be elevated and dedicated to serving Hashem when used properly. Shavuot, which celebrates the giving of the Torah, shows how Torah sanctifies all aspects of life.
Q: What is the significance of waving the Two Loaves?
A: The waving (tenufah) of the Two Loaves, as mentioned in Leviticus 23:17, was a symbolic act of presenting them to Hashem. The Talmud (Menachot 61a) explains that the kohen would move them forward and backward, and up and down, acknowledging Hashem's dominion over all directions. This act expressed gratitude for the harvest and demonstrated that everything comes from and belongs to Hashem.
Q: How does Leviticus 23:17 apply today if we don't have the Temple?
A: Although we cannot bring the Two Loaves today without the Temple, the verse still teaches important lessons. The Rambam (Hilchos Temidin u'Musafin 8:11) discusses the laws to remember the Temple service. Additionally, the message of elevating our material blessings (symbolized by chametz) through Torah, as well as expressing gratitude to Hashem for our sustenance, remains relevant. On Shavuot, we focus on Torah study and dairy meals (a custom with various explanations in Midrash and halachic sources) to commemorate the giving of the Torah.
Q: Why were the Two Loaves specifically 'two tenth measures' of flour?
A: The 'two tenth measures' (shnei esronim) refer to two units of an isaron (a specific volume measure) of fine flour for each loaf, totaling two isaronim. Rashi (on Leviticus 23:17) explains that this measurement corresponds to the omer offering brought on Passover, creating a connection between Passover (when we left Egypt) and Shavuot (when we received the Torah). The equal measurements symbolize how physical freedom (Passover) must lead to spiritual elevation (Shavuot).
Context in the Torah
The verse (Vayikra 23:17) appears in the context of the mitzvah of Shtei HaLechem (Two Loaves), brought as an offering on Shavuot. This offering is unique because it is the only communal sacrifice in the Beit HaMikdash made from chametz (leavened bread), unlike most flour offerings, which are matzah.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Vayikra 23:17) emphasizes that the loaves must be brought from new wheat grown in Eretz Yisrael, specifically from the first harvest (bikkurim). He notes that the term "מִמּוֹשְׁבֹתֵיכֶם" ("from your habitations") teaches that the grain must come from within the Land of Israel, excluding grain grown outside the land.
Rambam's Halachic Perspective
In Hilchot Temidin uMusafin (8:1), the Rambam rules that the Shtei HaLechem must be brought specifically on Shavuot, even if it falls on Shabbat. This underscores its importance as one of the key offerings of the festival.
Symbolism of Chametz
The Talmud (Menachot 52b) discusses why these loaves are permitted to be chametz, unlike most flour offerings. Rabbi Yehuda explains that Shavuot is called "Chag HaKatzir" (Festival of Harvest), and the chametz represents the fullness of the harvest season. The Maharal (Gevurot Hashem, Ch. 32) adds that chametz symbolizes human effort and partnership with Hashem in bringing forth sustenance from the earth.
The Two Loaves
Connection to Shavuot
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 306) teaches that bringing the Shtei HaLechem expresses gratitude to Hashem for the wheat harvest, aligning with Shavuot's agricultural significance as Chag HaBikkurim. The offering also serves as a reminder that material blessings come from Hashem and should elevate our spiritual service.