The Kohanim must prepare twelve loaves of showbread each week and place them on the Table in the Sanctuary before Hashem.
This mitzvah requires the baking and weekly arrangement of twelve loaves of lechem hapanim (showbread), placed on the shulchan (Table) in the Sanctuary. Each loaf was made from two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour. The loaves were arranged in two rows of six, with pure frankincense placed beside them as a memorial portion to be burned on the altar.
The loaves remained on the Table from one Shabbat to the next, and on each new Shabbat the previous loaves were removed and eaten by the Kohanim. This continual presence symbolized Hashem’s ongoing providence and blessing upon Israel’s sustenance. The Talmud (Menachot 96b) teaches that the loaves miraculously stayed fresh throughout the week. Rambam codifies that this mitzvah demonstrated Hashem’s constant presence and generosity in providing bread for His people. Sefer HaChinuch explains that the symbolism of bread reflects life itself, showing that Israel’s livelihood is tied to the Divine covenant.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
Contrast with the Daily Tamid Offerings:
Concerns the Beit HaMikdash, korbanot (offerings), and priestly service.
Represents the concept of spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.
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.
Dive into mitzvot, prayer, and Torah study—each section curated to help you learn, reflect, and live with intention. New insights are added regularly, creating an evolving space for spiritual growth.
Explore the 613 mitzvot and uncover the meaning behind each one. Discover practical ways to integrate them into your daily life with insights, sources, and guided reflection.
Learn the structure, depth, and spiritual intent behind Jewish prayer. Dive into morning blessings, Shema, Amidah, and more—with tools to enrich your daily connection.
Each week’s parsha offers timeless wisdom and modern relevance. Explore summaries, key themes, and mitzvah connections to deepen your understanding of the Torah cycle.
