In Parshat Tzav, we delve into the detailed instructions for the Kohanim regarding the daily Korbanot and rituals within the Mishkan. Among these instructions is the commandment regarding the removal of the ashes from the altar. This seemingly mundane task holds within it profound symbolism and echoes of the psychological concept of renewal.
The passuk at the beginning of the Parsha (6:3) states: “The priest shall dress in linen raiment, with linen breeches next to his body; and he shall take up the ashes to which the fire has reduced the burnt offering on the altar and place them beside the altar.” Rashi on the phrase “he shall take up the ashes” says each and every morning, the first order of the day in the Mishkan was for the kohan to remove a small portion of the ashes from the altar and place it on the floor just next to the altar. This seemingly simple act of cleaning holds significant spiritual significance of renewal.
Psychological renewal refers to the process of revitalizing one's mental and emotional well-being. It involves actively engaging in practices and behaviors that promote mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall psychological health. Psychological renewal can encompass a variety of activities and approaches aimed at reducing stress, fostering resilience, and enhancing personal growth. These practices help individuals recharge and rejuvenate their psychological resources, enabling them to better cope with life's challenges and pursue their goals with renewed energy and clarity.
The Kli Yakar writes that the Torah mentions ashes to remind ourselves that renewal often stems from a lack of arrogance and increased humility, not taking things to heart. This reminder comes from the idea that we all are merely “ashes and dust of the earth” and must consistently move forward renewing each day. Ashes are what is left over from the previous day’s service. Yesterday, your service may have been flawless. Yesterday, you may have perfected your relationship with Hashem, however, that was yesterday, not today. Each day requires its own intention to renew ourselves from the ashes of the previous day. Every day is a new beginning. Take a deep breath, smile, and start again.
In our lives, we often expend energy in our pursuits, whether they be spiritual, professional, or personal. Over time, these efforts can leave behind residue, akin to the ashes on the altar. If not tended to, this residue can accumulate and weigh us down, hindering our ability to maintain a vibrant and meaningful connection with our spirituality and purpose. Just as the kohanim were instructed to remove the ashes daily, we too are reminded of the importance of regularly clearing away the remnants of our past actions and experiences. Author C.S. Lewis said “You can't go back and change the beginning but you can start where you are and change the ending.”
Here are three tips for engaging psychological renewal:
- Practice being Intentional: Set aside time each day to set an intention or goal for the day. Creating an intention helps sharpen our focus, reduce stress, and increase self-awareness, fostering a sense of renewal.
- Engage in Self-Care Activities: Prioritize self-care by engaging in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This could include exercise, enjoying a hobby, or connecting with loved ones. Taking care of yourself replenishes your energy and promotes psychological well-being.
- Engage in Routine: Replace haphazardness with routine and consistency. By reframing your schedule in a more constructive way, you can promote psychological resilience and renewal.
The idea of renewal is vital mentally as much as physically. Just as physical clutter can weigh us down, so too can emotional and spiritual clutter. By regularly engaging in practices of renewal and self-care, we can cultivate a sense of clarity and routine into our lives. As we reflect on the practices of the Kohanim in Parshat Tzav, may we be inspired to embrace the concept of renewal in our own lives. May we approach each day with a sense of freshness and purpose, unburdened by the residue of the past, and open to the transformative power of renewal.
Elan Javanfard, M.A., L.M.F.T. is a Consulting Psychotherapist focused on behavioral health redesign, a Professor of Psychology at Pepperdine University, & a lecturer related to Mindfulness, Evidence Based Practices, and Suicide Prevention. Elan is the author of Psycho-Spiritual Insights: Exploring Parasha & Psychology, weekly blog. He lives in Los Angeles Pico Robertson community with his wife and three children and can be reached at Elan.Javanfard@gmail.com.