Emor

[rabbi...@yahoo.com]

This parsha is called Emor. Emor means "to say". The question is,
when G-d gave over the commandments to the Jews, he used different
ways to describe the type of command. Sometimes He would use "tzav"
which means command, "daber" to tell, and "v'yomer" to say. Why when
speaking about the laws of the kohanim is he using the softest way of
commanding, "emor"?

I know the midrash goes into very great length about what is the
importance of emor. Please, I would suggest to look over it, and
please post all your comments.

[Jerry Krasnow]

The commentary differentiates between the general and the specific.  In making the verb change, the latter focuses on the specifics applicable to the "Kohanim, that are the sons of Aaron."   This group has the priestly responsibilities and therefore need the specifics rules to be ready willing and able to perform their duties, at all times.   In particular it notes that they cannot come in contact with the dead. 
 
Interestingly the passage of Emor ends with the stoning of a man who blasphemes the name of G-d by the children of Israel.   Does this killing include the Kohanim?   It suggests a conflict in values - should the Kohanim defend the name of G-d and in so doing become tainted?  Or should they remain apart, perhaps incurring a sin by not fulfilling the edict to kill a blashphemer? 
 
What do you think?   
 
> Date: Tue, 5 May 2009 07:03:37 -0700
> Subject: [E-Torah] Emor
> From: rabbi...@yahoo.com
> To: e-t...@googlegroups.com