The Third section of the Book / Chumash of Leviticus opens with a description of the eighth (Shemini in Hebrew) and final day of the installation rituals. After this, it records which animals are permitted for Jewish consumption.

A fire went forth from before G-d and consumed them (10:2)

Nadav and Avihu, two sons of Aaron, were so swept up in the ecstasy of the moment. In their intense desire to cleave to G-d, which they expressed by offering an “unconsecrated” incense offering, they rose through spiritual heights even as they felt their souls leaving them. From this perspective, their death was not a punishment but a fulfilment of their wish to dissolve into G-d’s essence.

Nevertheless, we are not intended to imitate their example; on the contrary, we are expressly forbidden to pursue such suicidal spiritual rapture. Although it is necessary to seek inspiration and renew it constantly, the purpose of reaching increasingly higher planes of Divine consciousness is to bring the consciousness that we acquire down in the world, thereby making the world increasingly more conscious of G-d, transforming it into His home.

With our continued prayers for our hostages held by Hamas, safety and security for our IDF soldiers and a long lasting peace for the whole of Israel.

Wishing you a meaningful Shabbat and successful week to follow.

On Sunday evening Rosh Chodesh Iyar, we commemorate the Ninth yahrzeit of our dear colleague Rabbi Moshe Muller z”l. May his dear memory be for a blessing. Our warmest wishes to Mrs Brocha Muller and their Family for long life, simchos in good health free of any further sorrow.