Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

The double parsha of Tazria-Metzora deals with a form of illness called Tzaraat, which could affect one's skin, clothing, house, and was considered contagious.

The Torah addresses all this on hygienic and spiritual levels. The afflicted person lived outside the camp for one week at a time to prevent the spread and to help him heal. In addition, the Kohen served as both physical doctor and spiritual healer. There was no judgement, only compassion, care, and empathy.

While Covid-19 is an unprecedented illness, we can derive lessons from the Torah portion: the importance of physical distancing, proper hygienic measures, and spiritual care from friends and community.

I wish everyone good health. Stay well.

Better days are coming.

Rabbi Howard Morrison