Torah Commentary

This interpretation teaches that the blasphemer first wanted to express to the Israelite community that he was just like them. He blesses God, just as they did. But, as they continue to quarrel with him, question his beliefs, and separate themselves from him, he does the only thing left in his power: curse God.

This week's Torah portion, Parashat Emor, seems to suggest that God demands perfection, but on further examination calls us to accept ourselves - blemishes, imperfections, and all.

I study Torah because I'm fascinated by the stories of our people and enjoy studying the various interpretations. However, there are many disturbing passages. How do I come to terms with the challenging laws and narratives in this sacred text that I love so much? Emor features a set of laws that I find particularly challenging.

On the way home from school one day, my then five-year-old son asked me, "Mom, if nobody's perfect and all people are made in the image of God, doesn't that mean that God isn't perfect?" His question then, and even now, is not easy to answer.