Leftover sacrificial meat (notar) must be burned once its permitted time for eating has passed.
This mitzvah commands that notar — sacrificial meat left beyond its designated time — must not be discarded casually but burned in fire. Rambam (Hilchot Ma’aseh HaKorbanot 10:3) codifies that this burning is an affirmative mitzvah, performed to preserve the sanctity of korbanot even after their time has expired.
Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 461) teaches that burning notar ensures holy meat does not descend into mundane use or profanation. The Talmud (Pesachim 84a) stresses that the obligation of burning applies to all korban categories, with specified timeframes. Rashi (Lev. 7:17) explains that burning elevates the act of disposal into a final sacred act. Ramban comments that by destroying notar through fire, Israel demonstrates reverence for Hashem’s holiness, even in correction.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
Contrast with Prohibition Against Leaving Over (Mitzvah 394) and Eating Notar (Mitzvah 395):
Parallel to Burning Impure Sacrifices (Mitzvah 399):
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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