The Torah Reading of Parah (Red Heifer Purity)
Following Purim, comes the third seasonal Torah Reading – this time focused on ritual purification for the severest level of impurity engendered by contact with death. Heralding the requisite preparation for the key Paschal Offering, the rhyme and reason for this annual public reading is easily understood. However, multiple early sources indicate it to be biblically mandated – a notion difficult to understand. Copious sources, detailed analysis, and deep spiritual insight provide rationale as to why this unique tradition might hail from the Torah itself!
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| Topics: | Halacha, Minhag, Parshat Parah |
Rabbi Mendel Kaplan is the Spiritual Leader and Executive Director of Chabad Flamingo in Thornhill, Ontario, serving one of Canada’s most dynamic Jewish communities. He also serves as Chaplain of the York Regional Police Service. He is an active member of Toronto’s Vaad HaRabbanim (Council of Orthodox Rabbis), and a voting member of the COR Kashruth Council of Canada’s executive rabbinical board. Rabbi Kaplan is featured regularly on many local television and radio shows. He is a sought after speaker, with hundreds of lectures on Chabad.org. He and his wife, Faygie, are blessed with eight children. Artistically endowed, the rabbi enjoys drawing, sketching and creating charcoal portraits.
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