Emor: The defective

I am never sure whether or  not a parsha is intentionally symmetric.  It is always possible that the partitioning of the Torah reflects some superimposed pattern of topics and lengths of  writing, creating  the appearance of symmetry.  This weeks parsha has the appearance of symmetry.  It opens with disqualifications for the priestly service, first on the basis of dealing with the dead and then because of inborn or acquired physical defects , either in the Kohen or in the animal. 

The parsha ends with the youth of compromised ancestry , half Egyptian, scorning the Gd of Israel. The Rabbis of the Talmud  say that confused youth doubted the comestible  quality  of show bread that had lain on the gilded table for a week and that would now be distributed in tiny potions to the Kohanim.  But I would attribute a better question to him.   Why is contact with the dead a disqualification for a Kohen who will, as all people do, die? Why does a challenge that comes from Gd's  intervention ( or failure to intervene) in embryonic  development disqualify  participation in the service?

The service is imperfect. The intentions are not 100% pure, but it is (generally) guided by the need for a good performance. Thh holidays are listed so that there can be joy filled, imperfect, family centered celebration.  I know that these rules intensify the joy and meaning. 

The harsh rules about qualification for service is culminated in the draconian rule if inclusion.  The Israelite with the Egyptian father( a father who told him of myths that inflate the powers of gods)  must live up to the standards of belief of all Israelites.  His birth and environment are no excuse

My mother used to say: "Even when I am wrong I am right."