Animal or Angel

This week we read פרשת תזריע that deals with the subject of human impurities. This follows the subject of non-kosher animals.

There is a definite connection between animal טומאה and human טומאה. This shows the extremes in terms of human potential. If one applies himself and tries to reach his spiritual potential, he is capable of reaching the levels of angels.

On the other hand, man can sink to the level of animals, who act strictly according to their instincts. It is expected that man will use his intellect to rise higher and not give in to such instincts.

The various impurities mentioned in the Torah were designed to create a wake up call to give the individual a kind of “time out” to reflect on his priorities.

It is important to pause and reflect on the direction we are taking in life. It is never too late in life to take the steps necessary that we achieve our human potential of reaching the level of angels.

This is a special Shabbat as it is Rosh Chodesh, and Parshat החודש, and we have the unique situation of taking out three Torahs.