02 June, 2001
11 Sivan, 5761
The book of Leviticus has preserved for contemporary individuals Israel's concern for a holy community. In large measure concerned with how Israel can relate to G-d who is holy. Many of the same concerns reappear in chapters 5 and 6 of Numbers.
First, Levitical leader sought to maintain the holiness of the community by putting every "unclean" person outside the camp. Ritual uncleanness precluded accessibility to G-d, while simultaneously alienating other persons because of its contagious power.
Second, the holy character of the community was maintained through the reconciliation of those who may have wronged another. Not only was confession required, but both restitution and indemnification were necessary. The specific nature of the offense in Chapter 5:5-10, is not listed, other than reference to "thus breaking faith with the L-rd." Yet the demand for restitution suggests that is some way the offense was directed against other persons. Note, for example: "If the man has no kinsman to whom restitution can be made . . . " (vs 8). The stipulation parallels Leviticus 6, and is especially significant because of the elements of restitution and indemnification which were required as accompaniments of confession.
Third, in ways consistent with their the culture of that time, ancient Israel sought to maintain the fidelity of marital bonds. This they did in this passage through the ordeal which could be prescribed for wives of suspicious husbands. From a modern perspective, the passage is male dominated and chauvinistic. Yet, the passage affirms the sanctity of marriage.
Fourth, the presence of persons uniquely related to G-d such as the Nazirites, was yet another way by which Israel demonstrated the holiness of the community. The Nazirite might be either a man or a woman who made a special vow to separate himself/herself to G-d for a specific period of time. Such a period of dedication might be for a lifetime or for a limited period.
Although as contemporary Jews we may manifest the holiness of our community through different forms than did ancient Israel, the principle remains implicit for all of us. We must be ready to maintain a holy community, dedicated to G-d and to those ways of life which affirm one's relationship to G-d, and to other Jews. The challenge for present day Jews is to discover, or rediscover, the legitimate lifestyles which will testify to the nature of our relationship to our G-d today. We need to maintain the holiness of our relationship to G-d, not only as individuals but as a Jewish community of identity.
Shalom U'Vracha,
Thomas, Greta, and Talie
