Parasha Shemini – Year 2 – What to Eat According to the Bible?
Shabbat Shalom, Nazarene family.
This week we will study the parasha Shemini, portion of year 2, we will see the instructions given to Aharon and his sons about the consumption of sacred offerings, as well as the importance of following Yahweh’s commands. Then, we will see the details of pure and unclean animals, where we will read about which creatures can be eaten and which should be avoided. In this portion, we will learn about set-apartness, obedience and the distinction between clean and unclean, essential concepts for a life that pleases Elohim.
Vayiqra (Leviticus) 10:12-13
12 And Moshe (Moses) spoke to Aaron, and to Eleazar and Ithamar, his sons who were left: “Take the grain offering that remains of the offerings made by fire to Yahweh, and eat it without leaven beside the altar; for it is most set-apart.
13 You shall eat it in a set-apart place, because it is your due and your sons’ due, of the sacrifices made by fire to Yahweh; for so I have been commanded.
This week corresponds to the reading of the texts (in bold):
- Vayiqra (Leviticus) 9:1-10:11 / 10:12-11:32 / 11:1-47
- Shemuel Bet (2 Samuel) 6-7
- Mishle (Proverbs) 23
- Tehillim (Psalms) 78
- Ma’asei (Acts) 10:1-23 / 10:24-33 / 10:34-48
Summary of the weekly study, Year two:
Vayiqra (Leviticus) 10:12-11:32
In these verses, Elohim instructs Aaron and his sons on the proper consumption of the sacred offerings, stressing the importance of following His commandments precisely, even in times of difficulty. This section shows us priestly responsibility and obedience to Yahweh. Then, further on, the dietary laws about pure and unclean animals are detailed, specifying which creatures may be eaten and which are to be avoided. These instructions deal not only with physical health, but also with the holiness and distinction that Yahweh demands of His people, teaching us to live in purity and obedience to His commands.
Mishle (Proverbs) 23
These verses offer teachings on wisdom and prudent conduct in various life situations. The chapter warns against indulgence in pleasures, such as gluttony and drunkenness, and shows us the importance of not envying the wicked or seeking wealth dishonestly. Listening to correction and following discipline is advised, emphasizing that true wealth comes from wisdom and the fear of Yahweh. In addition, parents are encouraged to instruct their children in the right way, and young people to avoid bad company and live with integrity.
Ma’asei (Acts) 10:24-33
In these verses, Kepha (Peter) arrives in Caesarea to meet Cornelius, a Roman centurion who had received a vision from Elohim. Cornelius gathers his family and friends to listen to Kefa. Upon arrival, Kefa recognizes that, although Jewish law forbade Jews to associate with Gentiles, Elohim showed him that he must not call anyone unclean. Kefa shares the message of salvation with the Gentiles, emphasizing that Yahweh makes no distinction of persons and that the gospel is for all. This teaching shows us the universality of Yeshua’s message and the elimination of cultural barriers.
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Enjoy this fun activity with the whole family. Inside you will find development questions for the three weekly sections (Torah, Haftarah and Brit Chadashah). While the older ones discuss the questions and their answers, the younger ones can color the picture related to the teaching, solve a maze, find the 7 differences and much more. We encourage you to do it week by week and instill in your children the habit of studying Yahweh’s word as a family.
We hope you and especially your sons and daughters enjoy this effort. For it is through the study of the Scriptures that we can come to understand the love and care that Yahweh has always had for us. And also to perceive that He has been taking care of even the smallest detail, so that we can take care and enjoy all that He gives us. That is why it is so important that our children learn and grow up knowing that they are loved by the Creator of all that exists.
Shalom.
