Semikha 1.6: Tanakh & Halakhic Mindset: Sacrifice & Ritual

In this session we start the book of Leviticus. We explain the purpose of sacrifices, the role of religion in society according to evolutionary theory, and the problem with prayers today. We look at other books in the Tanakh and their perspective. We discuss the concept of the integral Torah. All parts are important and connected. It is reflected in the listing of mitzvoth of disparate categories together, and in the equation of embezzlement and deception with paganism and rebellion against God.