By Rabbi Baruch Lederman
SAN DIEGO–The word Korbon (offering) comes from the word karov (close). When we bring offerings to the temple, it brings us closer to Hashem. The korbonos have many seemingly daunting details; but we can never lose sight of the big picture. The korbonos offer us an intensity of closeness that is otherwise unimaginable as the following tale illustrates:
It is said that when G-d created the world, he originally created birds without wings. The birds complained to Hashem saying, “L-rd of the Universe, You have put us at a disadvantage compared to all the other animals. They have powerful muscular legs, enabling them to run fast and far. We have only these scrawny bird legs. The other animal predators can easily pursue us and feast on us. We don’t stand a chance.”
Hashem performed a miracle and gave the birds an amazing gift. He gave them wings.
Now the birds really complained, “Ribono shel olam, It was bad enough before when we had to evade our pursuers with our scrawny bird legs. Now You have made things much much worse by giving us these huge clunky things on our sides. Now we can barely waddle, much less run. We will be at the mercy of all the other animals, who will prey on us, catch us and kill us.”
Hashem explained to the birds, “My dear dear children. These wings are not a burden, nor are they an impediment. You just don’t understand how to use them. If you utilize these wings properly, you will be able to soar to the greatest heights. You will achieve that which was thought to be unachievable.”
When we look at halacha (Jewish Law) it can seem staggering. Some might even think that the mitzvos are hindering their lives, preventing them from eating, speaking, or doing what they want. The opposite is the case. By understanding and observing the mitzvos of the Torah we will be elevated to levels beyond our comprehension.
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Lederman is spiritual leader of Congregation Kehillas Torah. He may be contacted at baruch.lederman@sdjewishworld.com