Laws That Must Be Observed In Jerusalem

The Sefer Hachinuch explains why there are several laws in the Torah where the law is fulfilled only in Jerusalem.

This includes Maaser Sheini, that comes from one’s produce and is taken on the first, second, fourth, and fifth year of the Shmitta cycle. It must be consumed in Jerusalem, and if redeemed, the money is spent in Jerusalem.

Every year, one must bring “Maser Beheima,” where one tenth of his his newborn animals are brought to Jerusalem where they are slaughtered. Their blood and fats are offered on the altar, and the remainder may be eaten by its owner in Jerusalem.

The “Neta Revai,” the growth of fruits in the fourth year, must be brought to Jerusalem and consumed there. This is the year that follows the three year waiting period of “Orlah,” where fruit grown during these years is forbidden.

These three laws were designed to create a special connection with the holiest city in Israel. One is forced to go there to fulfill these three Mitzvot. If he doesn’t go, he will suffer a significant law.

The Sefer Hachinuch continues to explain that one’s physical presence in Jerusalem, has to affect him spiritually. He is in a place where there is a great deal of Torah studied. It was the seat of the Sanhedrin, the highest judicial body in the land.

HaShem, in His great wisdom, made these laws to elevate the Jew from being sunk into materialism.

If one wished to send his son in his place, to fulfill these Mitzvot, it was allowed. Perhaps the son will be so moved by the holiness of the place, that he will decide to remain for a while, and immerse himself in Torah study.

It is clear that every Jew remain close to his roots. One’s physical distance from Jerusalem, has its consequences, and he is likely to become distant from his own Jewish roots.

The Torah took this into account when it gave us laws that could only be observed in Jerusalem.