In this Parsha Review on Parshas Tzav (Leviticus 6–8), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe highlights the inauguration of the Kohanim (priests), where Moshe dresses Aaron and his sons in their sacred garments, anoints the Mishkan and altar with oil, and applies blood from the offerings to Aaron's right ear, thumb, and big toe (and similarly for his sons). Our sages explain this unusual ritual as a reminder to leaders: while the core (self and close family) is natural to protect, the "extremities" (distant people) are easily neglected. The ear, thumb, and big toe represent the farthest reaches of responsibility—those on the outskirts of one's influence or community—ensuring a true leader serves everyone, not just the inner circle.

Rabbi Wolbe ties this to true greatness: a "Katan" (small person) lives for self ("me, me, me"); a "Gadol" (great person) expands beyond self, taking responsibility for others. This mirrors the Kohen's role as representative of all Klal Yisrael, not personal honor. He connects it to modern leadership (politicians forgetting constituents until election time) and practical life: in marriage, parenting, and community, actively reach the "extremities" with care, connection, and love. As we approach Pesach and count the Omer (48 steps from redemption to Torah), the message is to use this season for growth in responsibility and unity—becoming one nation with one soul.

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This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman

Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 24, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on March 26, 2026

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About the Host:
Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
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Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
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Keywords:
#Torah, #Parsha, #Leviticus, #Tzav, #ShabbosHaGadol, #Kohen, #Leadership, #Greatness, #Kedushah

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Expanding Beyond Yourself [Parsha Pearls: Tzav] 5786