Beth HaDerech; Messianic Jewish Congregation, Toronto, Canada

Parashat Overview: Acharei Mot-Kedoshim (Videos)

In leap years (for example, 2011, 2014, and 2016), parshah Acharei is read separately on the 29th Sabbath after Simchat Torah. In common years (for example, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2018), parshah Acharei is combined with the next parshah, Kedoshim, to help achieve the needed number of weekly readings. This year is not a leap year, therefore we read a double parasha, Acharei Mot - Kedoshim. Acharei Mot: The twenty-ninth reading from the Torah and sixth reading from Leviticus is named Acharei Mot (אחרי מות), two words that mean “after the death.” The title comes from the first words of the first verse of the reading, which say, “Now HaShem spoke to Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron” (Leviticus 16:1). Leviticus 16 describes the Tabernacle ceremony for the holy festival of the Day of Atonement. Leviticus 17 establishes general rules for sacrifice and sanctuary. Leviticus 18 lays down specific laws about permitted and forbidden sexual relationships. Kedoshim: The thirtieth reading from the Torah and seventh reading from Leviticus is named Kedoshim (קדושים), which mean “holy.” The title comes from the words in Leviticus 19:2, which says, “You shall be holy, for I HaShem your God am holy.” Leviticus 19 describes the holy community through a series of specific commandments. Leviticus 20 warns against the snares of sexual immorality and idolatry, mandating a death...