Not to burn its (blemished animal's) fat
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This Mitzvah's Summary
It is forbidden to burn the fats of blemished animals on the altar.
This mitzvah forbids burning the sacrificial fats (cheilev) of blemished animals upon the Mizbeach. The burning of fats and certain parts of the korban is a central ritual act meant to honor Hashem. Performing this service with a blemished animal undermines the sanctity of the avodah and profanes the altar.
Rambam explains that the Torah created four distinct prohibitions concerning blemished animals: consecrating them (337), slaughtering them (338), sprinkling their blood (339), and burning their fats (340). Each stage of sacrificial service must be preserved in holiness, with the Torah teaching that imperfection is unacceptable at any step.
Sefer HaChinuch emphasizes that Hashem’s service must radiate reverence and respect; burning the fats of unfit animals profanes His honor rather than sanctifying it. The Talmud clarifies that this act carries liability because burning on the altar is considered one of the most significant acts of avodah. Ramban teaches that this mitzvah instills a lesson: only offerings that reflect completeness and dignity are acceptable before Hashem.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
- Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Mizbeach 1:7–8): Counts burning the fats of blemished animals as a distinct prohibition.
- Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 289): Explains that burning blemished fats defiles the sanctity of Hashem’s altar.
- Rashi (Lev. 22:24): Notes that the Torah explicitly rejects blemished animals from being “brought near” on the altar by fire.
- Talmud (Zevachim 24a–25a): Discusses the liability incurred for burning fats of blemished animals, emphasizing the sanctity of each stage of the avodah.
- Ramban: Teaches that Hashem demands dignity and perfection in offerings; burning blemished fats dishonors His altar.
Commentaries
Applying this Mitzvah Today
Notes on this Mitzvah's Fundamentals
Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה
- Rambam rules that burning blemished fats profanes the avodah, corrupting the holiness of the Mikdash. By demanding only unblemished offerings, the Torah ensures Hashem’s service radiates sanctity and honor.
Temple – בֵּית הַמִּקְדָּשׁ
- Rashi (Lev. 22:24) teaches that the altar service must be guarded against defilement. Burning fats from blemished animals contradicts the Temple’s mission as a dwelling for the Divine Presence.
Mizbeach – מִזְבֵּחַ
- Talmud (Zevachim 25a) stresses that burning upon the Mizbeach is one of the holiest acts. If performed with blemished animals, it desecrates the altar itself rather than elevating it in fire before Hashem.
Sacrifices – קָרְבָּנוֹת
- Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 289) explains that korbanot symbolize perfection. Blemished fats represent deficiency and thus negate the symbolic devotion required in offerings.
Reverence – יִרְאַת שָׁמַיִם
- Ramban highlights that reverence requires complete respect at every stage of the avodah. Burning unfit fats trivializes Hashem’s service and dulls the awe due to Him.
Justice – צֶדֶק
- The laws apply equally to all, regardless of status or wealth. Torah justice ensures that no blemished offerings, whether from a poor or wealthy person, may be burned on the altar.
Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם
- This mitzvah underscores that worship is a covenantal act directed wholly to Hashem. Burning unfit fats compromises that bond, teaching Israel to serve Him with perfection and integrity.
