Why Moses Forbade Aaron to Mourn Nadab and Abihu

Midrash Aggadah, Leviticus 10:6

Curated by Arthur·Told by Maggid·

"And Moses said to Aaron, etc." In conferring greatness, one begins with the great; but in cursing, one begins with the small — and the serpent will prove it. "Do not let the hair of your heads grow loose." The term "loose" (pera) is stated here, and it is stated elsewhere, "he shall let the locks of the hair of his head grow long" (Numbers 6:5). Just as there "letting loose" means the growing of hair, so here too it means the growing of hair. "And do not rend your garments." Do not tear your garments. "That you not die." From the implication of the negative, you understand the positive.

Themes

MourningPriesthood

Biblical References

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