Daily Chumash

Offerings to G-d predated the giving of the Torah. This very physical act is also an act of love showing devotion to G-d and means of becoming close to Him.

Sacrificial offerings were divided into two categories: Obligatory and voluntary. The first type of offering mentioned in the Torah, is the free-will voluntary offerings.

The book of Vayikra begins with commandments regarding the sacrifices.

The book of Vayikra is dedicated to offerings in the holy temple

This portion describes the construction of the priestly cloak/shift, which had pomegranates made of wool and golden bells at its hem. The shirt, hat, and pants were made of linen. The belt was made of twisted wool rope similar to the Ephod. The Tzitz was a gold plate inscribed with holy words on it, worn on the forehead of the high priest. Rashi explains how the Tzitz is attached to the linen hat with a turquoise woolen string. The vessels, accessories, and priestly garb were all complete. Moshe blesses the people and their handiwork.