This week we are reminded of the importance of Brit Milah. It is to tell us that the real defeat of our enemies is that we continue as Jews, from generation to generation.

The Torah commands us to celebrate life. While we honor the dead, we do not celebrate death. We have to remember that this is one of main differences with our current enemies. The celebrate death, not life.

There is no Hebrew word for tragedy. The reason is that in the view of the Torah our fates are not predetermined. We can change our lives by our actions.

The disease mentioned in the Torah seems to be a spiritual disease. It is an affliction that comes upon us for speaking ill of others. We have to be careful of not only what goes into our mouths but what comes out as well.

History teaches us that we will suffer tragedies in our lives. It is not that we will suffer them but what do we learn from them and how do we get up and rebuild.

In the middle of the narrative the Torah suddenly instructs us about what is permitted to eat. The meaning is that we cannot do what we want to do, but to follow God’s instructions.

The hubris of Aaron’s sons was what lead to their downfall. The fact that Aaron did not correct their behavior shows that a parents’ responsibility is to make sure their children do not fall into the trap of hubris.

When the sons of Aaron brought an unauthorized offering in the Tabernacle they were punished with death. This is to teach us that we should do what is right, not what we feel is right.

All great things in the history of the Jewish people begin in the month of Nisan. That is the real Jewish new year since that is the month the Tabernacle first began to operate.