Humility and Sincerity

There is a very clear message in terms of the offering of sacrifices. It is so much more important HOW the קרבן is offered, rather than the sacrifice itself.

We learned from the story of King Saul that Hashem would rather not receive our sacrifices if we do not listen to His voice. The Torah uses the words, אדם כי יקריב, when an אדם, a man, will offer. The Torah did not say איש, but אדם. The name אדם is close to the word, אדמה, meaning, “the earth.” This is to emphasize the importance of humility in how we approach Hashem, and ask for atonement for our sins. We cannot fool G-d, and not only can He recognize if we are truly remorseful, but He can also tell if the humility we demonstrate is genuine.

Rabbi Twerski wrote about those who feign humility, and try to portray themselves in a manner that is only meant to impress others, but is not sincere. This also applies to those who try to demonstrate a fake type of piety.

The message related to the offering of sacrifices, is that we need to take a good look at ourselves. We must not try to do things just to make an impression. Everything must be done with true sincerity and humility.