Not to decapitate a fowl brought as a sin offering

Unlike standard shechitah of birds for consumption, the Torah mandates that a bird brought as a sin offering be killed through melikah—a unique sacrificial act performed by the Kohen with his thumbnail at the nape of the bird’s neck. This procedure pierces the bird’s trachea and esophagus without fully detaching the head.

This mitzvah prohibits separating the head entirely. Doing so invalidates the offering and constitutes a violation of Temple law. The unique procedure underscores that sacrifices are distinct from ordinary slaughter, sanctifying even the means by which the korban is prepared.

Rambam codifies that complete decapitation is a transgression that disqualifies the korban. Sefer HaChinuch stresses that this distinction elevates the offering, separating Temple service from mundane acts. The Talmud explains that melikah is an act of sanctification given exclusively to the Kohanim, reinforcing the awe of sacrificial rites. Rashi clarifies that “he shall not separate” means the Kohen must not fully detach the head.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Ma’aseh HaKorbanot 6:1–3): Details the laws of melikah and forbids decapitation.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 405): Explains the reason for melikah’s uniqueness, elevating the sanctity of the bird offering.
• Talmud (Zevachim 64a): States that melikah must not be confused with ordinary slaughter, and complete separation invalidates the korban.
• Rashi (Lev. 5:8): Interprets “he shall not separate” as a prohibition against fully severing the head.
• Sifra (Torat Kohanim, Vayikra 5:8): Expounds the halacha that melikah is distinct from shechitah and bound by this prohibition.