Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'the priest that is anointed in his place' mean in Leviticus 6:15?
A: This refers to the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) who succeeds his father in the role. The Torah teaches that only a descendant of Aaron can serve as Kohen Gadol, and this verse emphasizes the continuity of the priesthood (Rashi on Leviticus 6:15).
Q: Why does the verse say 'a statute forever' about the burnt offering?
A: The phrase 'statute forever' teaches that this mitzvah applies in all generations, even when the Temple is not standing. The Rambam explains that these laws remain eternally relevant, and we study them in anticipation of the future rebuilding of the Temple (Mishneh Torah, Maaseh HaKorbanot 1:1).
Q: What does 'wholly burnt' mean in this verse?
A: This refers to the Minchat Kohen (the High Priest's daily flour offering) which was completely burned on the altar, unlike other offerings where parts were eaten. The Talmud explains this symbolizes the Kohen Gadol's complete devotion to Hashem (Menachot 51a).
Q: How does this verse about priestly duties apply to us today?
A: While we currently lack a Temple, this verse teaches us about the importance of continuity in serving Hashem and maintaining traditions. The Midrash teaches that studying these laws is considered as if we actually performed them (Tanchuma Tzav 14).
Q: Why does the Torah specify that the son succeeds the father as Kohen Gadol?
A: This establishes the hereditary nature of the priesthood, ensuring proper transmission of sacred duties. The Talmud explains this maintains the chain of tradition and prevents disputes about leadership (Yoma 72b). However, a son could only serve if he was worthy of the position.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Vayikra 6:15) discusses the obligation of the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) to offer the Minchat Chavitin (daily flour offering) and specifies that this duty passes to his successor upon his death. The phrase "חָק־עוֹלָם" ("a statute forever") emphasizes the eternal nature of this mitzvah.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that the phrase "תַּחְתָּיו מִבָּנָיו" ("in his place from his sons") teaches that only a descendant of Aharon can serve as Kohen Gadol. This excludes anyone outside the priestly lineage, even if they are otherwise qualified. Additionally, Rashi notes that the term "כָּלִיל תָּקְטָר" ("wholly burnt") means the entire offering is consumed on the altar, with no portion given to the kohanim.
Rambam's Explanation
In Hilchot Klei HaMikdash (4:12), the Rambam codifies this law, stating that the anointed Kohen Gadol must bring this offering daily, and his successor inherits this obligation. The Rambam emphasizes that this mitzvah applies even during periods when the Temple is not standing, in anticipation of its future restoration.
Talmudic Insights
Midrashic Interpretation
The Sifra (a halachic midrash on Vayikra) elaborates that the phrase "חָק־עוֹלָם" teaches that this mitzvah is binding for all generations, even in exile. The Midrash also connects this to the idea that the Kohen Gadol serves as a spiritual representative of the Jewish people, and his offerings maintain the covenant between Hashem and Israel.
Practical Halachic Implications
According to Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 128), while the Minchat Chavitin cannot be offered today, the verse reminds us of the eternal nature of the Temple service. Some poskim suggest that studying the laws of this offering serves as a partial fulfillment of the mitzvah in the absence of the Beit HaMikdash.