Questions for Preparation and Self Study
Questions for Preparation in WORD format
Shiur #1: The Double Nature of the Chagim in Emor
Shiur #2: The Chiastic Structure of Vayikra-Shmot

The Dual Nature of the Chagim in Emor

What is a "moed?" To most of us, the Hebrew word "moed" implies a holiday [i.e. a "yom-tov"]; a more precise English translation would be a 'fixed' [or 'appointed'] time. So why doesn't Parshat Emor use the Hebrew word "chag" [holiday] or "zman" [a set time] in its description of the holidays? Why is specifically the word Moed emphasized in Vayikra chapter 23? Furthermore, is it just by chance that the same Hebrew word "moed" is used in the phrase Ohel Moed that describes the Mishkan? In this week's shiur, we attempt to explain the thematic importance of Sefer Vayikra's description of the Moadim.

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The Chiastic Structure of Vayikra-Shmot

Why isn't Parshat Behar in Sefer Shmot where it belongs? After all, its opening pasuk tells us that these mitzvot were given to Moshe Rabbeinu on Har Sinai! Why does Chumash 'save' it for Sefer Vayikra instead? To complicate matters, Parshat Behar is not the only example of a 'parshia' towards the end of Sefer Vayikra that appears to belong in Sefer Shmot. Take for example the law to light the Menorah which is recorded in last chapter of Parshat Emor. Certainly that parshia belongs in Sefer Shmot for it is almost a direct quote from Parshat Tetzaveh! To answer these questions, this week's shiur investigates the intriguing possibility of a chiastic structure that may explain what otherwise seems to be a random progression of parshiot in Sefer Vayikra.

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