In this third parsha of the book of Vayikra, we open on the eighth day, following a seven-day initiation ritual. The eighth day’s ritual is described. Two of Aharon’s sons get up to something mysterious involving fire, and are just as mysteriously consumed in an instant fire. We are commanded to curb our desire to eat hyraxes. Among other laws about animals that are forbidden for us to eat, touch the carcasses of, dead carcasses falling onto plates and cups, and being holy.
Speaking of the eight day, here is an interview with a man who just wrote a book called “The Eighth Day,” referring to the day after October 7th in Israeli society.
Shemini