This is the ordinance of the Torah

by funlw65 on 04.07.2008. 00:25

by Rosh Chodesh Tammuz, 5768/July 3, 2008

This week's Torah reading opens with the description of the laws concerning the red heifer, referring to these laws as "chukat haTorah - the ordinance of the Torah." (Numbers 19:2) Our sages teach us that Torah refers to it as "the ordinance of the Torah" and not simply as the law of the red heifer in order to emphasize that of all Torah ordinances the red heifer most exemplifies the true essence of an ordinance. And what is its true essence? An ordinance or chok is a specific genre of Torah commandments that are part of man's service to G-d, as opposed to commandments that are societal, or civil, or moral in nature. As such, the chok defies rational explanation, but its performance is an abiding testimony to man's faith in and dedication to G-d.

Tune in to this week's Temple Talk as Rabbi Chaim Richman and Yitzchak Reuven discuss the ordinance of the red heifer, Moses' great humility, and his unusual behavior concerning the rock.

Tags · Torah · ordinance · Numbers