Torah portion Bechukotai contains the last chapter of The Holiness Code, the name given to Chapters 17-26 of Leviticus. Oftentimes, only Lev. 19 is referred to as The Holiness Code, but the entire ten-chapter unit forms a distinct passage within Leviticus. These chapters explain how each individual within the Israelite community has a part in creating a holy community by behaving ethically in everyday life and by observing the rituals and practices of the ancient Israelite religion. Lev. 26 in this week’s Parasha brings The Holiness Code to a rather chilling conclusion in which the consequences of non-observance are shared.
The punishments follow a section describing rewards for compliance, but the curses passage is much longer and more dramatic. Most people will do the right thing without the threat of punishment, but as the Etz Hayim Torah commentary points out, these verses are in place for those who need the “fear of God” to keep them on track. When chanted in the synagogue, the curses are read quickly and in an undertone. No one likes hearing (or reciting) bad news!
-Rabbi Dena A. Feingold
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