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Parshat Vayikra discusses the assorted korbanot, sacrifices, which were brought for various occasions. However, in the midst of learning about which animals may be offered, their ritual preparation and unique physiologies, we learn about a wholly different type of offering - the simple Mincha, or Meal-Offering of Fine Flour. Says the Torah, "When a soul will bring a meal-offering to the Lord..." (Vayikra 2:1). Why is the word "soul" used in reference to the one who brings the simple meal-offering? According to Rashi, quoting the Talmud, Menachot 104b, "The word 'soul' was not used with reference to any voluntary offerings except for the meal-offering! The reason for this is as follows: Whose practice is it to dedicate a meal-offering? It is the practice of a poor person. Thus, the Holy One, Blessed be He, said: Although the poor person's offering is modest, I will consider it on his behalf as if he offered his very soul" (Rashi on Vayikra 2:1).
This is fascinating. Because a poor person cannot afford to offer a more expensive or lavish korban, like a bull, a sheep or even a bird, they offer mere meal - a trifle to a wealthy person, but it is tantamount to the very life of a poor person. And because that individual is freely giving of a resource which they rely upon for their very lives, God counts their offering as if their very souls have been given to Him. Indeed, it is the simple Korban Mincha which is counted most dear to God, because it truly fulfills the essence and the purpose of a korban - to draw close to the Divine with one's whole being, with one's whole heart, with one's very soul. An offering need not be elaborate in order to be meaningful. On the contrary, the lesson of the Meal-Offering is that as long as we give what we can, and as long as our giving is sincere, our offerings, however simple, move us ever closer to God and to spiritual fulfillment.
At a time when world events seem to be spinning out of control, when anti-Israel protests ravage city streets and college campuses, when anti-Semitism continues to go unchecked, let us remember that while we may not be able to change and fix everything, all of us are capable of offering what we can, and through the simplicity of our sincere efforts we not only bring ourselves closer to God, but what's more, we bring ourselves closer to each other, which is so desperately needed now more than ever. May this Shabbat be a time to reflect upon those simple things we could do to make significant differences in the lives of others and for the causes we care about, so that all of us can move forward together, offering our hearts and souls in the service of the Divine and our community, enabling each other to feel the strength of Jewish fellowship in these most challenging times.
May you have a peaceful, restful and meaningful Shabbat, and we always seek to offer that which we can, that which comes from the heart, and may we always remember that sometimes, the simplest things mean the most.
Shabbat Shalom and Chag Purim Sameach!
-Rabbi Dan
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