Shabbat M’vorkhim: this Shabbat we bless the upcoming new moon of Nissan

The Priestly code described in Leviticus enjoins us to create meaning by making distinctions.  Embedded in this worldview is the differentiation between two states of being: tahorah and tumah.   Let us leave behind the inadequate translations of “pure/clean” and “impure/unclean” which makes tumah into a lesser, more undesirable state than tahorah.  [1] 

Being “tahor” implies a state of outward focus and full participation in community - in the Levitical mythos, this would be a time of participating in the sacrificial system.  The state of tahorah is one of full shining presence, a time of giving and of pouring out regard.  It is the outward-focused energy of the right side of the Tree of Life.

Being “tamei” is a time of retreat and inward focus, of withdrawal from the responsibilities of communal life.  In ancient times, we might go outside the camp or stay in our tent.  It is a period of potential regeneration and recovery.  Examples of times of tumah are following childbirth, during menstruation, during acute illness, or close upon the experience of death or sickness.  Perhaps this practice of retreat honors our periodic need for isolation and recharge.  This is the inward-focused energy of the left side of the Tree of Life.

In our current world, without restrictions imposed by a behavioral code such as that in Leviticus, Tazria asks us to acknowledge our differing holistic states of emotion-mind-body-spirit despite the demands of external culture.  How often have we become stressed and ill by pushing ahead with our busy lives, ignoring the very real needs we have for times of quiet inner focus?

With blessing that we co-create a world of heart wisdom that has the flexibility to recognize and honor both our times of tumah and tahorah,
Rabbi SaraLeya
23 Adar2 5771
March 29, 2011

[1] I am indebted for these ideas to discussions that have occurred over the past 10 years in Jewish Renewal circles which have helped plumb new depths of understanding about these ancient concepts.