This week's parashah returns us to the daily korbanot,
the sacrifices that were offered every single day in the Bet HaMikdash. At
first glance, these verses can seem distant from our lives. We no longer have
the Temple, no longer bring offerings, and yet our Sages teach that the essence
of the korban was never merely the animal upon the altar. Drawing on a
remarkable teaching from the Ba'al HaTanya in Likkutei Torah, we explore how
every Jew still offers a korban each day—through the three garments of the soul:
our thoughts, our words, and our actions. The challenge is no longer to place
an animal on the altar, but to place our own passions, ambitions, and desires
before HaShem, allowing the 'lower fire' within us to be transformed
by the 'higher fire' of holiness. 

This class is lovingly dedicated in honor of two very
special birthdays. To my beloved daughter, Mariyah, may HaShem continue to
bless you with abundant health, happiness, wisdom, and every success, and may
you and your beautiful family continue to be a source of pride and blessing for
Klal Yisrael. And to my dear friend, Abie, wishing you many more years of good
health, joy, nachat from your family, and continued blessings in all that you
do. May HaShem grant you both many long years, filled with His kindness, and
may we all merit to see the day when the fire once again descends upon the
Mizbe'aḥ in the rebuilt Bet HaMikdash, bimherah beyameinu. Amen.