The end of Parshat Shemini focused on the laws of kashrut—which animals are considered to be kosher and which are not. The majority of the focus of Parshat Tazria is that of the laws of tzaarat, a skin disease that is found on one’s body, clothing or home. Chazal explain that this skin disorder is spiritual in origin and stems from lashon hara, negative speech that has been spoken about other people. Rabbi Yisroel Salanter, zt”l finds the juxtaposition of these concepts very significant. He points out that all too often we are concerned correctly about that which enters our mouths, yet are not cautious enough about that which comes out of our mouths. As Jews we are encouraged to be consistent in our practice and observance of Torah and mitzvot. Controlling our speech at times can be very challenging but of immense importance. Ultimately, the desire to speak negatively about others may stem from an internal emptiness within ourselves. It would be helpful for us to pause and contemplate this possibility before speaking about others.

By Rabbi Eliezer Zwickler