Parshat Acharei Mot

Parshat Acharei Mot

(Vayikra 16:1-18:30)

 

Following the deaths of Nadav and Avihu, God warns against unauthorized entry "into the holy." Only one person, the Kohen Gadol ("high priest"), may, once a year, on Yom Kippur, enter the innermost chamber in the Sanctuary to offer the sacred ketoret to God.

 

Another feature of the Day of Atonement service is the casting of lots over two goats to determine which should be offered to God and which should be dispatched to carry off the sins of Israel to the wilderness.

 

The Parshah of Acharei also warns against bringing korbanot (animal or meal offerings) anywhere but in the Holy Temple, forbids the consumption of blood, and details the laws prohibiting incest and other deviant sexual relations.

 

 

(from Chabad.org)