Sh'mini

שְׁמִינִי
The Eighth [Day]

Leviticus 9:1-11:47

When Is Sh'mini Read?

/ 28 Nisan 5785
/ 24 Nisan 5786
/ 25 Adar II 5787

Summary

  • Aaron and his sons follow Moses' instructions and offer sacrifices so that God will forgive the people. (9:1-24)
  • Two of Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, offer "alien fire" to God. God punishes these two priests by killing them immediately. (10:1-3)
  • God forbids Moses, Aaron, and his surviving sons from mourning but commands the rest of the people to do so. Priests are told not to drink alcohol before entering the sacred Tabernacle and are further instructed about making sacrifices. (10:4-20)
  • Laws are given to distinguish between pure and impure animals, birds, fish, and insects. (11:1-47)

Ten Minutes of Torah: Sh'mini Commentary

A sunset skyline of Los Angeles

Moving Forward: The Eighth Day

By: Rabbi Andy Gordon

If Parashat Sh’mini was an episode of a TV show, it would begin with dramatic music followed by a big, booming voice announcing: “Previously in the Torah, our ancestors navigated the meaning of purity and sacrifice. The kohanim prepared for their ordination as the spiritual leaders of the Israelite community.

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Video: Learn About Parashat Sh'mini with BimBam

Sh'mini: The Kosher Animal Song

Parsha Sh'mini is best known for the Jewish dietary laws of kashrut, or keeping kosher. Naturally, we turned that into a bluegrass song! Enjoy this video and others from BimBam.

Listen to Podcasts About Parashat Sh'mini