It is forbidden to eat from korbanot that became invalid or blemished.
This prohibition safeguards the sanctity of the sacrificial system. If an offering became invalid — through improper thought during slaughter (pigul), impurity, or physical blemish — it may not be eaten. Rambam (Hilchot Ma’aseh HaKorbanot 18:1) codifies that eating from such disqualified sacrifices incurs lashes.
Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 454) explains that the mitzvah preserves awe for the Mikdash: if people freely ate invalid offerings, respect for the sanctity of korbanot would diminish. The Talmud (Zevachim 29b) outlines cases of invalidation, such as improper intent or offering outside permitted times. Rashi (Deut. 14:3) emphasizes that the verse’s general term “abominable” extends to unfit offerings, stressing their spiritual repulsiveness. Midrash Sifrei (Re’eh 100) links this mitzvah to Israel’s holiness — they must avoid consuming that which has lost Divine favor.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
Contrast with Positive Command to Burn Invalid Sacrifices (Mitzvah 398–399):
Parallel to Pigul (Mitzvah 393):
Concerns the Beit HaMikdash, korbanot (offerings), and priestly service.
Represents the concept of spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.
Signifies awe and reverence toward Hashem—living with awareness of His greatness and presence.
Represents Emunah—the deep, inner trust in Hashem’s presence, oneness, and constant involvement in our lives. This badge symbolizes a heartfelt connection to G-d, rooted in belief even when we cannot see. It is the emotional and spiritual core of many mitzvot.
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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