“You shall lay a hand upon the head of the burnt offering, that it may be acceptable in your behalf, in expiation for you.” (Leviticus 1:4)
Laying of hands is a term we often associate with Christianity. In the New Testament the laying on of hands was associated with Jesus healing the sick (Luke 4:40) and has been utilized today for healers, be they evangelical or otherwise. The rabbis have long engaged in s’micha (also meaning laying of hands) as ordination because earlier rabbis would pass their authority on to the next generation by laying their hands on them. Through touch we convey many things. A gentle touch shows affection. A rough touch is abusive. Touching is intimate and shows a connection. Telling the priest to lay his hands on the animal was a way of establishing a connection with the animal that is about to be slaughtered. This ensured the act was not taken lightly. We, too, should be careful in the way we touch others whether it be physically or emotionally.
This Shabbat Morning March 25 my sermon will be "Israel: Is It Really the Only True Democracy in the Middle East?" This is an opportunity to launch a communal conversation about Israel. I hope you will put the date on your calendar and I hope we can grow together.
Greenburgh Hebrew Center rabbistein@ghcny.org 515 Broadway Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 914-693-4260 office@ghcny.org www.ghcny.org
