Imperfect Offerings: Parshat Vayikra 2026 March 20
Name/Title
Imperfect Offerings: Parshat Vayikra 2026 March 20Entry/Object ID
rdi-2026.03.20Scope and Content
This sermon explores korbanot—sacrificial offerings—as a metaphor for intimacy and the courage to draw close to God, others, and ourselves. Rather than offering only what is polished or whole, the Torah’s call to bring an offering “from you” (mikhem) invites us to bring our imperfect, vulnerable, and honest selves. Through the example of Israeli soccer player Eyal Berkowitz openly acknowledging his jealousy and competitiveness, the piece argues that true closeness requires bringing even the parts of ourselves we would rather hide. Without the Temple or prescribed rituals, our lives themselves become the altar, and whatever we are brave enough to bring into the light becomes our offering.Category
Shabbat sermons