Parashat Achrei Mot

Both the Israelite and the stranger are given equal status in the sacrificial cult.

The proper observance of Yom Kippur, including repentance and introspection, should bring us nearer to God all year long.

The sexual relationships forbidden by the Torah are intended to prohibit non-Israelite religious practices and abuses of power.

God instructs Moses regarding the procedures for the Day of Atonement; sexual prohibitions are then listed.

The commandment to the priests to purify themselves of sin before God reminds us to hold our leaders accountable to act ethically.

The juxtaposition of laws about the high priest on Yom Kippur, forbidden sexual relationships and laws about blood teach the sanctity of basic parts of life.

Nadav and Avihu died in an act of sanctification; our goal should be to sanctify God through our lives, not our deaths.

We can reach God by engaging with the world around us and connecting to others and the earth.

We can learn from and adopt only those practices foreign to Judaism that enhance and strengthen Jewish practice.