Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 7:15 mean about eating the thanksgiving offering the same day?
A: Leviticus 7:15 teaches that the flesh of the thanksgiving offering (Korban Todah) must be eaten on the same day it is brought, with none left until morning. According to Rashi, this emphasizes the importance of gratitude being expressed promptly and not delayed. The Talmud (Berachot 54b) explains that this applies to all thanksgiving offerings, ensuring the mitzvah is performed with immediacy.
Q: Why is the thanksgiving offering different from other peace offerings?
A: Unlike regular peace offerings (Shelamim), which could be eaten for two days, the thanksgiving offering (Todah) must be consumed the same day (as stated in Leviticus 7:15). The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 9:7) explains that this teaches us gratitude should be expressed without delay. Additionally, the Rambam (Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot 9:8) notes that this rule highlights the special nature of thanksgiving.
Q: What practical lesson can we learn from Leviticus 7:15 today?
A: Although we no longer bring animal sacrifices, Leviticus 7:15 teaches the timeless value of expressing gratitude immediately. The Talmud (Berachot 54a) states that one should recite the blessing of 'HaGomel' (thanksgiving for being saved from danger) as soon as possible. This verse reminds us not to delay acknowledging the good we receive from Hashem.
Q: Why does the Torah forbid leaving the thanksgiving offering until morning?
A: The prohibition against leaving the thanksgiving offering until morning (Leviticus 7:15) teaches that gratitude must be fresh and sincere, not postponed. Rashi explains that delaying could lead to spoilage or neglect of the mitzvah. The Sforno adds that immediate consumption ensures the offering remains holy and connected to its purpose of thanksgiving.
Q: How was the thanksgiving offering eaten in Temple times?
A: The thanksgiving offering (Todah) was eaten on the same day it was brought, as per Leviticus 7:15. The Talmud (Menachot 81a) describes that it was accompanied by 40 loaves of bread (10 each of matzah, chametz, and two other types). The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot 9:7-8) explains that this large quantity ensured many people would partake, spreading gratitude publicly.
Understanding the Verse in Context
The verse (Vayikra 7:15) discusses the laws of the Korban Todah (thanksgiving offering), a type of Shelamim (peace offering) brought to express gratitude to Hashem. Unlike other peace offerings, which may be eaten for two days and one night, the Korban Todah must be consumed entirely on the day it is offered, with none left until morning.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Vayikra 7:15) explains that the strict time limit for eating the Korban Todah ensures that the offering is consumed in a state of gratitude and joy, without delay. He connects this to the nature of thanksgiving—it should be immediate and not postponed. Additionally, Rashi notes that this rule forces the bringer of the offering to invite others to partake, as the large quantity (accompanied by 40 loaves of bread, as per Vayikra 7:12-13) cannot be eaten by one person alone in a single day.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchos Maaseh HaKorbanos (9:8), the Rambam emphasizes that the Korban Todah is unique because it is brought in response to a specific miracle or salvation (e.g., recovery from illness or surviving a dangerous journey). The requirement to eat it promptly reflects the immediacy of one's gratitude to Hashem for the salvation experienced.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 9:7) teaches that in the future, all sacrifices will cease except for the Korban Todah, as gratitude will always be relevant. This highlights the eternal importance of recognizing and thanking Hashem for His kindness.
Practical Implications
Halachic Considerations
The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 91) rules that any meat left beyond the permitted time becomes notar and is forbidden to eat. This reinforces the idea that holiness must be treated with urgency and not neglected.