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Leviticus 9:8 - High Priest's personal atonement begins

Leviticus 9:8 - ויקרא 9:8

Hebrew Text

וַיִּקְרַב אַהֲרֹן אֶל־הַמִּזְבֵּחַ וַיִּשְׁחַט אֶת־עֵגֶל הַחַטָּאת אֲשֶׁר־לוֹ׃

English Translation

Aharon therefore went to the altar, and slaughtered the calf of the sin offering, which was for himself.

Transliteration

Vayikrav Aharon el-hamizbe'ach vayishchat et-egel hachatat asher-lo.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּקְרַ֥ב אַהֲרֹ֖ן אֶל־הַמִּזְבֵּ֑חַ וַיִּשְׁחַ֛ט אֶת־עֵ֥גֶל הַחַטָּ֖את אֲשֶׁר־לֽוֹ׃
וַיִּקְרַ֥ב אַהֲרֹ֖ן אֶל־הַמִּזְבֵּ֑חַ וַיִּשְׁחַ֛ט אֶת־עֵ֥גֶל הַחַטָּ֖את אֲשֶׁר־לֽוֹ׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Vayikra 9:8) describes Aharon's actions during the inauguration of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), marking the first time the Kohanim performed the sacrificial service. This moment was significant as it followed the tragic deaths of Nadav and Avihu, Aharon's sons, and required Aharon to approach the altar with great reverence and caution.

Aharon's Personal Sin Offering

Rashi (Vayikra 9:2) explains that Aharon was commanded to bring a calf as a sin offering to atone for his involvement in the incident of the Golden Calf (עגל הזהב). The Midrash (Torat Kohanim 9:2) elaborates that this was a demonstration of divine mercy, allowing Aharon to achieve atonement through this offering rather than facing immediate punishment.

Symbolism of the Calf

  • Reminder of the Golden Calf: The choice of a calf (עגל) specifically alludes to Aharon's earlier mistake, serving as a tikkun (rectification) for that sin (Ramban, Vayikra 9:2).
  • Humility and Repentance: The Talmud (Berachot 32b) teaches that true repentance requires acknowledging one's past errors. By offering a calf, Aharon publicly admitted his role in the sin and sought forgiveness.

Aharon's Approach to the Altar

The Kli Yakar (Vayikra 9:8) notes that the phrase "ויקרב אהרן" ("Aharon approached") implies hesitation. Aharon, still mourning his sons and conscious of his past, approached the altar with humility and trepidation. This teaches that even the Kohen Gadol must serve Hashem with awe and self-reflection.

Halachic Significance

The Rambam (Hilchot Maaseh HaKorbanot 5:15) derives from this verse that a Kohen must personally slaughter his own sin offering, emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility for one's atonement. This contrasts with other offerings, which may be slaughtered by any qualified person.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Aharon (Aaron) bring a sin offering for himself?
A: Aharon brought a sin offering for himself before performing the service for the people to atone for any possible errors he might make in the service (Rashi on Leviticus 9:8). This teaches the importance of spiritual preparation before serving Hashem.
Q: What is the significance of the calf as a sin offering in this verse?
A: The calf was chosen as Aharon's sin offering to atone for his involvement with the Golden Calf (Midrash Tanchuma, Shemini 6). This demonstrates the principle that one's offerings should relate to their personal spiritual growth and repentance.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Aharon approached the altar himself?
A: The Torah emphasizes that Aharon approached the altar himself to show his enthusiasm and willingness to serve Hashem (Rambam, Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 5:7). This teaches us the importance of serving G-d with joy and personal commitment.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Aharon offering a sacrifice for himself before the people?
A: We learn that a leader must first correct their own spiritual state before helping others (Talmud, Berachot 28a). Just as a doctor must be healthy to heal others, spiritual leaders must work on themselves first.
Q: How does this verse relate to the Yom Kippur service?
A: This verse sets a precedent for the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) bringing a personal sin offering before atoning for the people, which became the model for the Yom Kippur service (Leviticus 16:6, Mishnah Yoma 4:2). It shows the ongoing importance of personal accountability in spiritual leadership.