Daf Yomi, Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, Torah and Psychology, Marriage Counseling, Psychotherapy
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the extent of the prohibition of chametz in the Mincha offering. Even after the kometz portion is offered on the altar, the remainder is still prohibited to have chametz. The proof text is:
“It shall not be baked with leaven. I have given it as their portion of My offerings made by fire” (Vayikra 6:10). This section of the verse can be read as a single sentence, to indicate: Even their portion of meal offerings, i.e., the remainder eaten by priests after the removal of the handful to be burned on the altar, shall not be baked with leaven.
The Be’er Mayim Chaim (in Siduro Shel Shabbos, I, Shoresh V:1) understands this verse allegorically as well. Chametz often symbolizes the evil inclination because of its internal fermenting nature, and that it arises spontaneously if the dough is left unsupervised - similar to character flaws that bubble up without self-awareness. However, the emphasis here is that even on your own portion, there also is a prohibition against Chametz. The Be’er Mayim Chaim says this represents a different kind of awareness. It is not enough to devote time towards God and spiritual endeavors. But, even in “your portion“, there must be devotion to God. That means the regular everyday activities are to be spent with some sense of connection and service. This is the meaning of the prohibition against Chametz in your portion of the sacrifice.
To attain this level is at once difficult, but also easy. The Torah is asking of us not to devote moments of time toward worship but to live and walk with God. This is difficult in one way because it requires a constant sense of mindfulness and even humility to consistently subordinate our own wishes and desires, and see ourselves as acting and walking in the way of God. On the other hand, it makes life kind of simple. The investment of Time and Energy in our worldly pursuits can be less frustrating and less disappointing when we see ourselves partnering with God. When you have a powerful and wealthy business partner, it’s a lot easier to bear the ups and downs in the marketplace. Similarly, if one truly believes that he is walking in the ways of God and God is supporting and guiding him, events are experienced differently. Disappointments are momentary and can be seen as redirections and reassessments and not catastrophic. This is why Torah life which offers a constant state of observance and commandments, may seem daunting, but really offer a pleasant and healthy lifestyle.
Translations Courtesy of Sefaria, except when, sometimes, I disagree with the translation
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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