Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 7:16 mean?
A: Leviticus 7:16 discusses the laws regarding sacrifices brought as vows (נדר) or voluntary offerings (נדבה). It states that such sacrifices must be eaten on the day they are offered, and any leftovers may be eaten the next day. After that, any remaining meat becomes invalid and must be burned (as explained in later verses). This teaches the importance of treating holy offerings with proper respect and timeliness.
Q: Why is there a time limit for eating vow or voluntary offerings?
A: According to Rashi and the Talmud (Zevachim 37a), the Torah imposes time limits to ensure that sacrificial meat is eaten while it is still fresh and treated with reverence. Allowing it to spoil would show disrespect for the sanctity of the offering. Additionally, the Sages teach that delaying consumption could lead to neglect or improper handling of holy items.
Q: What is the difference between a vow (נדר) and voluntary offering (נדבה)?
A: A vow (נדר) refers to a sacrifice pledged in fulfillment of a specific promise to Hashem, making it obligatory once declared. A voluntary offering (נדבה) is brought willingly without any prior obligation, as an expression of gratitude or devotion. The Rambam (Hilchot Maaseh Hakorbanot 14:13) explains that both types have similar laws but differ in their initial intent.
Q: How does this verse apply today without the Temple?
A: While we cannot bring sacrifices today, the principles still apply to our spiritual service. The Talmud (Berachot 17a) teaches that prayer and Torah study substitute for sacrifices. Just as offerings required proper intent and timeliness, our prayers and mitzvot should be performed with devotion and without delay. The verse also reminds us to treat holy matters (like Torah study or acts of kindness) with urgency and respect.
Q: Why can some sacrifices be eaten for two days while others only one?
A: As explained in the Talmud (Zevachim 35b), different sacrifices have different rules based on their level of sanctity. Peace offerings (שלמים), which include vow and voluntary offerings, have a two-day limit because they are less holy than, for example, sin offerings (חטאת), which must be eaten the same day. The varying timeframes reflect the different spiritual purposes and degrees of holiness associated with each sacrifice.
Overview of the Verse
The verse (Vayikra 7:16) discusses the laws pertaining to sacrifices brought as nedarim (vows) or nedavot (voluntary offerings). Unlike other sacrifices, these offerings have specific time restrictions for consumption.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Vayikra 7:16) clarifies that this verse refers to the shelamim (peace offering) brought as a vow or voluntary offering. He notes that the Torah distinguishes between these and other peace offerings by limiting their consumption to two days and one night (the day of offering and the following day). Any leftovers beyond this time become notar (forbidden to eat and subject to burning).
Rambam's Halachic Perspective
In Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot (10:8), the Rambam codifies this law, stating that voluntary or vow-based peace offerings must be eaten within the designated time frame. He emphasizes that violating this prohibition by eating leftovers on the third day incurs the punishment of karet (spiritual excision).
Talmudic Discussion
The Gemara (Chullin 83a) explores why vow and voluntary offerings have stricter time limits than other peace offerings. One explanation is that these offerings reflect personal commitments (nedarim) or spontaneous generosity (nedavot), and delaying their consumption might diminish the donor's original intent or enthusiasm.
Midrashic Insight
The Sifra (Torat Kohanim) connects this law to the broader theme of zerizut (alacrity) in divine service. By requiring prompt consumption, the Torah teaches that mitzvot should be fulfilled with enthusiasm and without delay, especially when they stem from personal devotion.
Practical Implications