This week, we open Sefer Vayikra. In Parshat Vayikra, the Torah discusses the korban ahsam-talui, the korban given for an action that is not definitively a sin. This concept is a curious one - what is the takeaway from the experience of bringing this korban? Is there a lesson regarding our general attitude toward mitzvot and the way we treat the earth?

In Parshat Tzav, we are given the details of korbanot, including the Korban Mincha. The Korban Mincha is the only korban that does not involve any animals. What does this korban aim to teach us? How can we learn about caring for Hashem’s creations though the giving of this korban?

In Parshat Shemini, we learn which fish are kosher and which are not. The Torah permits us to eat fish, but is there a limit? The Torah and chazal lend insight into how we view our food.

In Parshat Tazria, we learn about a mysterious illness with a spiritual cause. This brings the connection of the spiritual and the physical to the fore. How might our planet’s current state actually stem from a spiritual mistake? The Torah can teach us a great deal about how we think about our goals.

In Parshat Metzorah, we learn about the kohen’s healing procedure for the ailment of tzara’at. What is the purpose of the items that the kohen brings? Is nature more than just a set of resources that we must care for? Our parsha reveals another level of Hashem’s creation.

In Parshat Acharei Mot, the Torah tells us about the special incense mixture known as the ketoret. Why does the ketoret utilized spices from around the world? The parsha teaches us about the relationship between the physical and spiritual.

In Parshat Kedoshim, we find a prohibition over which much ink has been spilled - “You shall not place a stumbling block in front of a blind person…” What are the parameters of this lo ta’aseh? Could it be that this passuk has a lot more to do with our relationship with the earth than we thought? It is always healthy to reassess common trends.

In Parshat Emor, Hashem tells us that we must have a certain kind of relationship with animals we consume? What should that relationship be in modern times? Where does this notion extend? The Torah has a profound lesson for us regarding Hashem’s creation.

In Parshat Behar, we learn about shmitah! What benefits does shmitah bring to one who adheres to it? What deeper message might be hiding at the core of this mitzvah? Perhaps there is something applicable to more than just crop farmers in Israel.

In Parshat Bechukotai, Hashem draws the connection between our adherence to the mitzvot and precipitation. How do we view the world’s status quo regarding precipitation? Do we have anything to do with it? Perhaps there is more of a connection than we think.