We will consider Achrei Mot–Kedoshim, a double portion that encompasses the holy commands found in Vayiqra (Lev. 16:1–20:27), chapters 16 through 20. These passages form a foundational pillar of righteousness for the remnant, that we might walk in the path of separation from the defilements of the nations and in the light of the presence of Alaha.
After the Death – Achrei Mot (16:1–18:30)
The portion begins solemnly: “With regard to the death of the two sons of Aharon, when they drew near before Alaha, and died” (16:1). This reference to Nadav and Avihu’s sin stands as a sacred warning to all who approach Alaha without discernment or reverence. The sons of Aharon brought forth strange fire—not commanded by Alaha—and were consumed. This is not because Alaha is cruel, but because His holiness is like fire. That which is not sanctified shall not endure in His presence.
Thus the instruction of the Day of Atonement is revealed. One day in the year, High Priest shall enter beyond the veil, into the Holy of Holies, to make atonement for the sins of the people, of the sanctuary, and of the altar. He must come with blood, not his own, and he must come alone, not when he chooses but when Alaha ordains. It is here that the mystery of atonement is shown in symbols—the two goats, one for Alaha and one for Azazel. The goat for Alaha is offered upon the altar, a sin offering. The goat for Azazel is not a sacrifice in the proper sense, but a scapegoat, bearing the iniquities of the children of Yisrael into the wilderness, into a place cut off. This prophetic act points forward to a greater atonement, to be fulfilled not in shadow but in substance. For Yeshua Mshikha, our High Priest, entered once for all into the true heavenly sanctuary, not with the blood of goats, but with His own blood, to obtain eternal redemption (Heb. 9:11-14).
The following chapters (17–18) continue the theme of holiness in relation to blood and sexual purity. Alaha forbids the eating of blood, for “the soul of the flesh is in the blood” (17:11). Blood is sacred, reserved for atonement. Life is not to be consumed, but rather preserved. Those who defile themselves by eating blood or by partaking in the pagan rites of the nations separate themselves from the people of the covenant.
In chapter 18, Alaha warns against the abominations of Egypt and Canaan, especially in the realm of sexuality. These acts are not only physically defiling but spiritually corrupt. The land itself is said to vomit out those who practice such things. Therefore, let the sons and daughters of Yisrael be sanctified, for Alaha is Holy.
You Shall Be Holy – Kedoshim (19:1–20:27)
This second portion begins with the supreme command: “You shall be holy, for I, Mar-Yah your Alaha, am holy” (19:2). Here lies the core of the Essene covenant—the calling to consecrated separation unto Alaha. Holiness is a life of vigilant obedience and reverence. It touches every aspect of our being—speech, thought, conduct, and love.
These commandments are both ethical and ritual. Honour your father and mother. Keep Shabbat. Do not turn to idols. Leave the corners of your fields for the poor and the stranger. Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not hate your brother in your heart. Do not take vengeance. Do not bear a grudge. You shall love your neighbour as yourself. These words are not abstract moral ideals. They are the covenantal expressions of the character of Alaha. Each command is rooted in the phrase “I am Mar-Yah.” These are certainly not the arbitrary laws of an earthly kingdom. They are the revelation of the nature of Alaha. To obey them is to participate in His likeness. To disobey them is to deny His image in oneself.
Chapter 20 concludes this portion with the punishments for defilements. The severity of these judgements reflects the severity of the offences. The people are commanded to put away mediums, spirits of necromancy, sexual perversions, and child sacrifice. Let no one presume upon the mercy of Alaha while rejecting His Mitzvoth. Those who walk contrary to the covenant shall be cut off from among the people. But those who walk in His ordinances shall inherit the land and dwell before Him in righteousness.
The Essene Way of Holiness
Among the Sons of Light, this portion was received not as an external code but as a living path. The works of the Toray (Aurayta) are pursued not for legalistic righteousness but as a response to the light within. The ancient Netzarim were instructed to dwell apart from the defiled camp, to establish a community of truth and holiness, to offer their lives as spiritual sacrifices of incense before the throne of Alaha. The Way of Holiness is central to our order. It was written: ‘The sons of Zadok shall keep watch over the covenant of Alaha and shall be as a wall of fire, separating the unclean from the clean.’ We are to be guardians of the sanctuary—not a temple of stone, but a temple of living stones, built upon the cornerstone which is Yeshua Mshikha.
Therefore, beloved, let us receive this portion with trembling and joy. Let our lives be as incense upon the altar. Let our speech be seasoned with truth. Let our hearts be purified from all defilement. Let the light of holiness shine forth from our assemblies, that the nations might behold the wisdom of Alaha.
May we, the children of light, be found faithful. May we walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit of Holiness. May we be holy, for Alaha is holy.
May the peace of Maran Yeshua be with your spirits.
Chayim bar Ya’aqub
9 May 2025