Emor
Lev. 21:1 - 24:23
Précis:
This parasha is divided into four sections. First, it
reviews procedures for the Priests to use to remain ritually pure. Second, it
outlines the festival and holiday calendar. Third, it explains the use of the oil,
and the bread on display on the altar. Finally, there is a brief narrative
about a blasphemer who is condemned to death.
Lev. 23:15 “… from the
day on which you bring the sheaf offering - the day after the Sabbath - you
shall count off seven weeks. They must be complete: you must count until the
day after the seventh week.”
The counting of the “omer,” connecting the Exodus of
Passover with the Revelation of Shavuot, was initiated in agricultural times,
as the farmers prepared for the next round of harvest.
Counting days is difficult during
this year’s pandemic-infused omer. With social distancing and a loss of
community in many ways, the days seem to blend into one another. Is today
Monday, or Tuesday? Can it possibly be Friday already?
Counting the omer, either personally or
through Zoom chats or services, can provide some structure to our lives at a
time when we need it. Counting the omer can also provide a sense of gratitude
for our Exodus from Egypt, and a sense of hope as we near the commemoration of
Revelation.
The sometimes-arcane rituals of
Leviticus are intended to provide structure in our lives, and help us confront
the ambiguity inherent in life. Perhaps counting the omer can keep us more
grounded in time during these difficult days.
