This week we start Sefer Vayiqra. The perasha opens with G-d calling to Moshe (Vayiqra 1:1). This phrasing isn’t the norm that the Torah records for dialogue between G-d and Moshe. Rashi (via Vayiqra Rabah) explains that the word “calling” Moshe implies love and a special association that G-d had for Moshe. After all, Moshe had overseen every aspect of the Mishkan’s construction meticulously, ensuring that each measurement and instruction was carried out exactly as G-d had commanded. G-d therefore expressed His great love for Moshe, recognizing the special status he held, and called out to him in this unique way.
In the next pasuk (Vayiqra 1:2), the Torah similarly uses a unique term to describe the individual who brings a sacrifice for G-d, choosing the word “אָדָם” as opposed to the more commonly used “אִישׁ” meaning man or person. What is the Torah trying to teach us? Rashi assists us again by explaining that the Torah chose the word “אָדָם” to remind us of Adam, the first man, who owned everything and therefore could not have stolen anything. So too, our sacrifices cannot come from stolen property.
A second aspect of what makes a sacrifice meaningful can be found in Beresheet, where Kayin and Hevel each brought the very first sacrifices to G-d (Beresheet 4:3-4). G-d accepted Hevel’s sacrifice but not Kayin’s. Why? Once again Rashi comes to our rescue and explains that Hevel brought his sacrifice with real thought, care, and love, choosing from the finest and firstborn of his flock. Kayin simply brought from the fruits of the ground, from what was available, without much effort or intention.
Even without the Bet HaMikdash today, Be”H may it be built speedily in our day, we can still offer ‘gifts’ to G-d. We can take better care performing the misvot, particularly in our prayers. In fact, the Gemara (Berachot 26b) teaches that our prayers today serve as a substitute for the sacrifices. Even if it’s only for a paragraph at a time, a few extra moments of concentration goes a long way. G-d will recognize your effort and respond in kind. Little by little you will grow until your entire prayer is recited with concentration.
Imagine a husband who brings his wife flowers. Yes, the flowers are a thoughtful gift, though the card that he writes personally for his wife is what she will truly treasure. He may even choose to bring flowers he specifically knows his wife loves. She feels that far more than the flowers alone.
So the next time you set out to do a misva, think for a moment. Like the husband who chooses the flowers his wife loves, it’s the thought and intention behind the act that can make all the difference.