Our gemara on amud aleph discusses the requirement of the Pesach sacrifice to be slaughtered and eaten only from those who registered as part of a group who share in that sacrifice. What is the psychological significance of such a requirement?
The Benei Yisaschar (Nisan 4:4) observes that the Paschal sacrifice takes place in the Spring season, an offering of sheep or goats, a hallmark of material wealth and success, at a time when those who have those assets feel the greatest promise and potential. At that moment, he is to take to heart that all his possessions and wealth is only if he has “registered“, symbolically indicating that whatever he has is only because God decrees. Furthermore, the redemption from slavery is not merely from the tyranny of Pharaoh, but from psychological enslavement of those dependent on material assets. Slaughtering the goat is renouncing the material possession and declaring it under the province of God; while requiring an advanced registration, is the understanding that wealth comes from God. A person who understands that his happiness and success is not dependent on anything material, but only on his level of morality and attachment to God. This person is truly free. “There is no free man like the one who is involved with the study of Torah." (Avos 6:2. This is derived from a play on words in Shemos (32:16), where "engraved" (charus) is read as "freedom" (cheirus), teaching that engagement with Torah grants true freedom.)
I will add, requiring an advanced registration and also partnership with a group, is the understanding that not only does wealth come from God but also as part of community. The need to possess and control ruins relationships. As Socrates says in Plato’s Republic (IX): “The tyrant never tastes of true freedom or friendship.” If we are consumed with our fears and possessions, and do not believe that we answer to something higher, we will find it difficult to relate properly to others, and others will not truly love or see us for who we are.
Translations Courtesy of Sefaria, except when, sometimes, I disagree with the translation
Free resource for couples/families:
Over 80 lectures on heathy communication, marriage and sexuality from a Torah perspective Click here
If you liked this, you might enjoy my Relationship Communications Guide. Click on the link above.
Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, LCSW-R, LMFT, DHL is a psychotherapist who works with high conflict couples and families. He can be reached via email at simchafeuerman@gmail.com