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Tzav (2026)

Shabbat Tzav

Dvar Torah - The Eternal Flame: A Light for EveryoneIn this week’s Torah portion, Tzav, we find a specific command regarding the Tabernacle: "A continuous fire shall burn upon the altar; it shall not go out."  For centuries in the Temple of Jerusalem, this flame was meticulously kept and never flickered out and in our times it’s the source for the Ner Tamid (the Eternal Light) present in every synagogue today.

But there is a fascinating question: Why on the altar? There were other lights in the Temple, like the golden Menorah, which was kept in the more sacred space of the sanctuary. The altar, however, was different:
  • Visibility: The altar was located outside in the courtyard. Its smoke and fire were visible for miles to anyone looking towards Jerusalem.
  • Inclusivity: The wood used for the altar’s fire could not become ritually impure, essentially enabling anyone to contribute to it.
  • Universality: The altar was the one place in the Temple where everyone—regardless of their background, status, or even their faith—could bring an offering. As the prophet Isaiah said, "For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations.
The Eternal Flame wasn't hidden away for an elite few; it was placed on the most public part of the Temple for highly accessible engagement and exposure. When it comes to serving G-d the symbol of continuity and consistency is universal and calling to all.

Shabbat Shalom!



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