Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that the priest sprinkles blood seven times before the veil?
A: According to Rashi and traditional Jewish sources, the seven sprinklings symbolize completeness and atonement before Hashem. The act is part of the sin-offering ritual in the Temple, where the blood represents purification. The number seven is significant in Judaism, often representing spiritual perfection (as in the seven days of creation).
Q: Why does the priest use his finger to sprinkle the blood?
A: The Torah specifies the finger (often understood as the right index finger) to emphasize precision and intentionality in the service of Hashem. The Mishnah (Zevachim 4:3) discusses this detail, showing that every aspect of Temple service had exact requirements to maintain holiness.
Q: What is the significance of the 'veil' (parochet) mentioned in this verse?
A: The parochet was the curtain separating the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later the Temple. Rashi explains that sprinkling toward the parochet showed reverence for the sacred space where the Divine Presence dwelled. Even though the priest couldn't enter the Holy of Holies (except on Yom Kippur), this act connected the atonement process to the holiest area.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jews today without the Temple?
A: While we cannot perform this ritual today, the Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah) teaches that sincere repentance, prayer, and charity now serve in place of sacrifices. The verse reminds us of the seriousness of atonement and the need to approach spiritual correction with the same care the kohen showed in the Temple service.
Q: Why is blood used in this purification process?
A: The Torah (Leviticus 17:11) states that 'the life of the flesh is in the blood.' Jewish tradition understands that blood represents life force. In Temple service, it symbolized transferring life-energy back to Hashem in the process of atonement. The Talmud (Yoma 5a) discusses how blood rituals facilitated kaparah (atonement) by acknowledging the gravity of missteps and recommitting to Divine service.
Meaning of the Verse in Context
The verse (Vayikra 4:17) describes part of the purification process for the sin offering (chatat) brought by the community or the Kohen Gadol. The Kohen dips his finger in the blood of the sacrifice and sprinkles it seven times before the parochet (veil) of the Mishkan or Beit HaMikdash. This act symbolizes atonement and the sanctification of the sacred space.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Vayikra 4:17) clarifies that the sprinkling is done toward the parochet, not directly on it, emphasizing that the blood must be directed in front of the veil, not touching it. He also notes that the seven sprinklings correspond to the seven heavens or the completeness of the atonement process, as seven is a number representing wholeness in Jewish tradition.
Symbolism of the Seven Sprinklings
Rambam’s Halachic Perspective
In Hilchot Maaseh HaKorbanot (5:13), the Rambam explains the technical requirements of the sprinkling: the Kohen must flick the blood with his finger in a deliberate motion, ensuring it reaches the proper area before the parochet. This precision reflects the seriousness of the sacrificial service and the need for exactness in divine worship.
Spiritual Lessons
The act of sprinkling blood before the parochet teaches that repentance and atonement require approaching Hashem with sincerity. The Kli Yakar (Vayikra 4:17) adds that the blood—representing life—must be directed toward holiness, reminding us that true repentance redirects one’s life toward divine service.