In Torah portion Tsav (Leviticus 6:1 – 8:36), we encounter the continuation of the sacrificial laws and the detailed consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons into the priesthood. This pivotal moment in the Israelite community’s development underlines themes of leadership, sanctity, and the grave responsibility bestowed upon chosen individuals.
The Question of Moses’ Nepotism
At first glance, Moses’s exclusive appointment of Aaron and his sons to the priesthood, as delineated in Leviticus 8, might raise modern eyebrows, evoking concerns of nepotism. The centralization of religious authority within one family could be perceived as contradictory to contemporary values of egalitarianism and meritocracy. However, a closer reading of the text and its commentaries reveals a layered understanding of these appointments that transcends simplistic accusations of favoritism.
The Spontaneous Gathering: A Community’s Endorsement
Leviticus 8:4 describes a spontaneous assembly of the community at the tent of meeting, “And Moses did as the Lord commanded him; and the assembly was gathered unto the door of the tent of meeting.” This verse highlights not only Moses’ adherence to divine instruction but also the community’s active participation in the ritual. The spontaneous nature of this gathering, without the goading of Moses, suggests an implicit communal endorsement of Aaron’s selection, mitigating concerns of nepotism with a display of collective consent.
Anointment: The Burden of Sacred Service
The anointment of Aaron and his sons signifies more than just a formal induction into priesthood; it represents the conferral of a profound spiritual responsibility. Leviticus 8:12 tells us, “And he poured of the anointing oil upon Aaron’s head, and anointed him, to sanctify him.” This act of anointing is symbolic of setting apart, imbuing the priests with a divine mission that carries both honor and immense burden. Far from a mere privilege, the priesthood demands a lifetime of service, sacrifice, and adherence to a stringent set of laws that govern every aspect of their lives.
Consecration and the Filling of Hands (Milluim)
The consecration of the priests, described through the ritual of filling their hands (Milluim), further emphasizes the gravity of their roles. Leviticus 8:33 details God’s command to Aaron and his sons to remain at the tent of meeting for seven days to complete their ordination, stating, “And ye shall not go out from the door of the tent of meeting seven days until the days of your ordination be fulfilled; for he shall consecrate you seven days.” This period of seclusion symbolizes a complete immersion into their holy duties, where the “filling of hands” represents both the literal offering of sacrifices and the figurative acceptance of their lifelong commitments to serve God and the community.
The Weight of Responsibility and the Shadow of Death
The sacred texts underscore the severe consequences of failing to fulfill these responsibilities. Leviticus 10:1-2 narrates the tragic fate of Nadab and Abihu, Aaron’s sons, who offered “strange fire” before the Lord, resulting in their immediate death. This harsh punishment serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes associated with the priesthood, where deviation from God’s commandments can lead to fatal outcomes.
Divine Perspectives: The Midrashic View on Leadership and Responsibility and Failure
The Midrash offers deeper insights into the complexities of leadership and divine selection. One poignant narrative explores the dual perspectives of God and Moses during the giving of the Torah. According to Midrash Tanhuma (Ki Tisa), while Moses sees the Israelites’ acceptance of the Torah in a singularly positive light, God foresees both this moment and the future transgressions of the people, including the sin of the Golden Calf. This Midrashic teaching reflects the nuanced understanding of human nature inherent in divine choices—recognizing the potential for both greatness and failure within the leaders and the community they serve.
This narrative recognizes the awe of a mission, the responsibility of leadership, and the inbuilt nature of human frailty, imperfection, and, ultimately, failure that is inevitable in any success. It recognizes the repetitions of failure that can sometimes be fateful, but simultaneously, it is all a part of the journey that brings us ever closer to perfection.If we were always afraid of failure, we would never try. And even though failure is inevitable, we must step up when we can contribute. Ethics of the Fathers (2:21) writes: “It is not upon you to complete the job, but neither are you free to desist from it.”
