Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'offered it according to the prescribed manner' mean in Leviticus 9:16?
A: The phrase means that Aaron performed the burnt offering (olah) exactly as commanded in the Torah. Rashi explains that this refers to following all the detailed laws of sacrifices found in earlier portions of Leviticus, including proper slaughter, blood sprinkling, and burning on the altar.
Q: Why is it important that Aaron offered the sacrifice 'according to the prescribed manner'?
A: The Torah emphasizes proper procedure in sacrifices because they are sacred acts of serving Hashem. The Talmud (Zevachim 46a) teaches that deviations in sacrificial service can invalidate the offering. Aaron's precise adherence sets an example for all future Temple service.
Q: What lesson can we learn today from Leviticus 9:16 about following mitzvot?
A: Just as Aaron meticulously followed the sacrificial laws, we learn the importance of performing mitzvot with precision and care. The Rambam (Hilchot Meilah 8:8) derives from this that we must be as careful with 'minor' mitzvot as with 'major' ones, since the Torah doesn't distinguish between them in importance.
Q: What was special about the burnt offering mentioned in this verse?
A: The olah (burnt offering) was unique in being completely consumed on the altar, symbolizing total dedication to Hashem. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 7:3) explains it atones for improper thoughts and represents complete submission to G-d's will.
Q: How does this verse connect to the broader context of Leviticus 9?
A: This verse is part of the inauguration of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) service. Rashi notes that Aaron's precise performance demonstrated his worthiness as Kohen Gadol after the tragic incident with his sons (Leviticus 10), showing that proper service brings Divine approval (as seen in the fire from heaven in the next verses).
Understanding the Verse in Context
The verse "וַיַּקְרֵב אֶת־הָעֹלָה וַיַּעֲשֶׂהָ כַּמִּשְׁפָּט" (And he brought the burnt offering, and offered it according to the prescribed manner) appears in the context of the sacrificial service, likely referring to the actions of Aharon or the Kohanim in the Mishkan or Beit HaMikdash. The phrase "כַּמִּשְׁפָּט" (according to the prescribed manner) emphasizes the meticulous adherence to halachic requirements in performing the korban olah (burnt offering).
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi (Vayikra 1:7) explains that "כַּמִּשְׁפָּט" refers to the specific laws governing the olah offering, as detailed in the Torah. This includes:
Rashi underscores that every step must align with the divine commandments, without deviation.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchos Maaseh HaKorbanos (Laws of Sacrificial Procedure), the Rambam (Maimonides) elaborates on the precision required in avodas hakorbanos (sacrificial service). He emphasizes that the phrase "כַּמִּשְׁפָּט" alludes to the structured, halachically mandated process, ensuring the offering's validity. Any negligence in procedure could invalidate the korban.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 2:7) connects this verse to the broader theme of submission to divine will. The olah, being wholly consumed by fire, symbolizes complete devotion to Hashem. The Midrash teaches that performing the mitzvah "כַּמִּשְׁפָּט" reflects an unwavering commitment to follow halacha precisely, mirroring the olah's total dedication.
Halachic Implications
The Talmud (Zevachim 2a) discusses how the korban olah must be brought specifically in the northern part of the Azarah (Temple courtyard), highlighting the importance of exactitude in fulfilling "כַּמִּשְׁפָּט". This teaches that even the location of the service is divinely ordained and non-negotiable.