The Role of the Kohein

This week’s Parsha is אמור. The main subject is the special role the Kohanim played in Jewish life.

They were meant to live on a higher level of Kedusha than the rest of the Jewish community. They worked in the Beit Hamikdash and offered sacrifices. They were chosen to bless the nation every day. The Shechina, Divine Presence, passes through the fingers of the Kohein.

The Kohein acted as a doctor in some ways as he was the one who diagnosed the blemish of צרעת, leprosy.

They were given the role of being the educators of the Jewish people. In addition, a disproportionate number of Kohanim served as judges in various courts. They were also chosen to eat holy foods such as תרומה, and sacrifices.

For all of these reasons, the Kohein had special laws of sanctification. He could not come in contact with the dead. He was supposed to be given priority with Aliyot to the Torah, and leading the Benching.

It is a responsibility and privilege to serve עם ישראל as a Kohein.