Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 23:37 mean?
A: Leviticus 23:37 lists the special times (מועדים) that Hashem commanded the Jewish people to observe as holy gatherings. These include the festivals like Pesach, Shavuot, Sukkot, etc. The verse emphasizes bringing specific offerings (עולה, מנחה, etc.) on their designated days as part of the service in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later the Beit Hamikdash (Temple). Rashi explains that 'the thing of the day in its day' means each offering must be brought on its proper time.
Q: Why are the 'feasts of the Lord' important in Judaism?
A: The 'feasts of the Lord' (מועדי ה׳) are central to Jewish practice because they are times of connection with Hashem, remembrance of His miracles, and spiritual renewal. The Rambam (Hilchot Yom Tov) teaches that these holy days are opportunities to focus on Torah study, prayer, and joy. They also commemorate key events in Jewish history, such as Yetziat Mitzrayim (the Exodus from Egypt) on Pesach and receiving the Torah on Shavuot.
Q: How do we observe these 'holy gatherings' today without the Temple?
A: Although we cannot bring the physical offerings today without the Beit Hamikdash, we still observe the מועדים through prayer, festive meals, and special mitzvot unique to each holiday (like matzah on Pesach or the sukkah on Sukkot). The Talmud (Berachot 26b) teaches that our prayers correspond to the offerings, and the Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 9:7) emphasizes that sincere repentance and good deeds are also considered offerings before Hashem.
Q: What is the significance of the offerings mentioned in this verse?
A: Each offering mentioned (עולה - burnt offering, מנחה - meal offering, etc.) served a different spiritual purpose. The עולה was completely devoted to Hashem, symbolizing total dedication. The מנחה, made from flour, represented humility (as flour is ground finely). The Talmud (Menachot 110a) teaches that studying the laws of these offerings is as meritorious as bringing them, showing the enduring value of their lessons even today.
Q: Why does the Torah emphasize 'the thing of the day in its day'?
A: The phrase 'דבר־יום ביומו' ('the thing of the day in its day') teaches the importance of performing mitzvot at their proper time. The Talmud (Pesachim 4a) derives from this that we should not delay mitzvot. Rambam (Hilchot Temidin U'Musafin 1:1) explains that this principle ensures the consistency and sanctity of the service, showing that each day's obligations are unique and time-sensitive in avodat Hashem (service of God).
Introduction to the Mo'adim
The verse (Vayikra 23:4) introduces the mo'adim (appointed times) of Hashem, which are to be proclaimed as sacred gatherings. Rashi explains that the term mo'adim refers to the festivals designated in the Torah, including Shabbat, Pesach, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot. These are times when the Jewish people are commanded to assemble for divine service and spiritual elevation.
The Sanctity of the Festivals
The phrase mikra'ei kodesh (holy gatherings) emphasizes that these days are set apart for kedushah (holiness). The Rambam (Hilchot Yom Tov 6:17) teaches that the sanctity of the festivals involves both physical rest (menuchah) and spiritual engagement, such as prayer, Torah study, and rejoicing before Hashem. The Sforno adds that these gatherings strengthen communal unity and reinforce our connection to the divine.
The Korbanot (Offerings)
The verse details the various offerings to be brought on these days:
The Principle of "Dvar Yom B'Yomo"
The phrase dvar yom b'yomo (each thing upon its day) teaches that every festival has its unique mitzvot and korbanot, to be observed at their designated times. The Talmud (Megillah 20b) derives from this that the korbanot must be offered during the day and not at night. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 28:3) further explains that each festival's offerings reflect its spiritual theme, such as the matzah of Pesach or the lulav of Sukkot.
Conclusion: The Purpose of the Mo'adim
Collectively, these festivals serve as opportunities to renew our covenant with Hashem, as the Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:43) writes: "The mo'adim are times of remembrance of the great miracles and divine providence." Through korbanot and sacred gatherings, we affirm our commitment to Torah and mitzvot, drawing closer to Hashem in both individual and communal worship.