Parshat Acharei Mot
PARSHA OVERVIEW
Hashem instructs the kohanim to exercise extreme care when they enter the Mishkan. On Yom Kippur, the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) is to approach the holiest part of the Mishkan after special preparations and wearing special clothing. He brings offerings unique to Yom Kippur, including two identical goats that are designated by lottery. One is "for Hashem, and is offered in the Temple, while the other is "for Azazel," to be in the desert. The Torah states the individual's obligations on Yom Kippur: On the 10th day of the seventh month, one must “afflict” oneself. We are to abstain from eating and drinking, anointing, wearing leather footwear, washing and marital relations.
Consumption of blood is prohibited. The blood of slaughtered birds and undomesticated beasts must be covered. The people are warned against engaging in the wicked practices that were common in Egypt. Incest is defined and prohibited. Marital relations are forbidden during a woman's monthly cycle. Homosexuality, bestiality and child sacrifice are prohibited.
