It is forbidden to bake a minchah as chametz (leavened).
This mitzvah prohibits baking any meal offering (minchah) as leavened bread. All meal offerings brought to the Mikdash must remain unleavened, symbolizing purity, humility, and simplicity.
Rambam explains that leaven (se’or) represents arrogance and corruption — puffing up beyond measure. Hashem desires offerings that are pure and unadulterated, not inflated. Sefer HaChinuch teaches that chametz is a metaphor for the evil inclination (yetzer hara), which expands and inflates desires; its exclusion from the altar reflects the demand that avodah be free from inner corruption.
The Talmud (Menachot 55b) establishes that leavening is strictly prohibited in all korbanot except for two unique cases: the Shtei HaLechem on Shavuot and the Todah (thanksgiving offering), which carry distinct symbolic messages. Rashi explains that chametz is inappropriate on the altar because it reflects decay and sourness. Ramban adds that just as Pesach excludes chametz to emphasize redemption, so too the Mikdash excludes it to emphasize sincerity and purity.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
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Represents the concept of spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.
Concerns the Beit HaMikdash, korbanot (offerings), and priestly service.
Relates to internal intentions, beliefs, and mindfulness in performing mitzvot or avoiding transgressions.
Signifies awe and reverence toward Hashem—living with awareness of His greatness and presence.
Mitzvot that define and deepen the relationship between a person and their Creator. These include commandments involving belief, prayer, Shabbat, festivals, sacrifices, and personal holiness — acts rooted in divine connection rather than human interaction.
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