There is a custom that when children first start learning Chumash, they begin with reading the first pasuk of Sefer Vayikra. A number of suggestions are offered as to why this custom exists. The Midrash Rabbah explains that Sefer Vayikra is the Sefer that deals with the laws of korbanot, sacrifices. The halacha dictates that if the smallest of blemishes appears on an animal, it may not be brought as a korban. The Midrash offers that just as the Korbanot must be completely pure, so too, children are pure. Therefore, the “pure ones” should learn the laws regarding the purity of Korbanot. On a practical level most institutions that follow this custom do so only for the first Pasuk of the Parsha and then return to Breishit. However, the lesson here for everyone involved is profound, especially for our generation. Through our interaction with society, many of our children are losing their sense of innocence and purity at a younger age than in the past. I speak of purity of the mind and the soul. As parents it may be frustrating that we are not able to control what our children learn on the bus or from other children in school. Yet we do have the ability to strongly influence what our children learn and see when they are at home. It is immensely important for us to have conversations with our children about difficult topics, so that there remains no doubt regarding the lessons we wish to convey and the unwavering support and love we have for them. While at times, certain conversations may be uncomfortable, yet necessary so that our children see us as approachable and loving regardless of the challenges that they may face, today, tomorrow or years from now as they grow in life.The Mishkan served as the spiritual home for the Jewish people, which was pure at its core. In these turbulent times it is incumbent upon us to do our part in securing the purity of our homes and families’ lives.

By Rabbi Eliezer Zwickler