Not to inflict wounds upon dedicated animals

This mitzvah prohibits striking, cutting, or otherwise injuring an animal that has been dedicated to the Mizbeach, thereby causing it to develop a blemish. Once an animal is consecrated, its sanctity is bound to the altar, and any act that renders it unfit is a direct affront to Hashem’s honor.

Rambam codifies this mitzvah as distinct from the prohibitions against offering blemished animals (336–342), emphasizing that it applies even if the animal was originally without blemish but later injured. Sefer HaChinuch explains that this commandment trains us to respect holiness and never to treat consecrated items lightly.

The Talmud teaches that causing a blemish to a consecrated animal is not only a ritual violation but also a symbolic act of disregard toward Hashem’s offerings. Ramban expands that damaging an animal dedicated to Hashem undermines the principle that sacrifices must represent the finest, whole, and unblemished.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Mizbeach 1:11): Prohibits intentionally creating blemishes in consecrated animals.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 292): Explains that damaging holy animals shows contempt for sanctity and dishonors Hashem’s service.
• Rashi (Lev. 22:20): Notes that animals with blemishes are not accepted, implying that making them blemished is itself a transgression.
• Talmud (Bekhorot 34a; Zevachim 25b): Discusses liability for one who intentionally mars consecrated animals.
• Ramban: Emphasizes that blemishes negate the symbolism of offering only the best to Hashem.