On this daf we compare the shaving of the Nazir to the shaving of the Metzora. In actuality, there are three shaving rituals in Biblical Judaism: Metzora, Nazir and the initiation of the Levites (Mishna Negaim 14:4.) (There is a fourth, if you count the custom of Upsherin.) Sefer Hachinuch (174) explains that the common thread in all three of these rituals is to signal a rebirth, as a newborn infant who is relatively hairless. The Levites inaugurated a new plane of existence in service of God, while the Metzora’s purification signals a healing and a renewed commitment to spiritual and resultant physical health. The Nazir as well concludes his program of self abnegation with a healthier balance and perspective on indulgence versus participation in life.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe (Derech Mitzvosecha Giluach Metzora) notes that there is a difference between the shaving of the Nazir and the other two. The Nazir’s hair is described by the Torah as holy, as well as actually incorporated in the sacrifice (Bamidbar 6:5 and 6:18.) It seems that the Metzora and Levites shed their hair as something to discard, while the Nazir’s hair is revered. He attributes this to the symbolic and mystical function of hair. As we have discussed in Psychology of the Daf Nazir 9, hair is an emanation from the head (intellect), and represents emanations from God. Like hair, God’s emanations are relatively lifeless, that is devoid of His full essence and power, in comparison to the originating source. All things in the world, good or evil, pure or impure, still owe their existence to God. However, some emanations are more alive and more connected to God. The Nazir’s holy hair, and for that matter, his attempts at abstention balanced by a new and appropriate engagement in the world, represents tapping into and receiving God’s emanations in the highest form. This is why his hair is venerated. The metzora and incumbent Levite sheds his hair to shed his old engagement in the world toward a newer, more Godly connection.

Translations Courtesy of Sefaria, except when, sometimes, I disagree with the translation

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