4) The Medrash (Shemos Rabbah 3:13, Tanchuma Metzora 2) says that the spotted patterns on snakes are tzara’as, which they received as punishment for the original serpent speaking lashon hara against Hashem by claiming (Bereishis 3:5) that He forbade Adam and Chava to eat from the Tree of Knowledge because doing so would elevate them and make them His equals. The Ichud B’Chidud (5777) notes that this is surprising when considering how valuable snakeskin articles have become, when in reality the prized designs are actually a form of tzara’as.
More in this printout
- Early Bedikas ChometzAn exploration of the halachic obligations for bedikas chometz when leaving home before Pesach, including timing, the role of bittul, and reciting a berachah.
- When We Hear Someone Selling the Key to Long Life What Comes to MindExplore the spiritual roots of tzara'as and the true meaning of long life through a powerful Medrash about a peddler selling the secret to eternal life.
- Lessons from LeprosyExplore the spiritual lessons of the metzora's purification, including how shaving hair and isolation atone for arrogance, lashon hara, and selfishness.
- Covering the Mouth of the MetzorahExplore why a Metzorah must cover his mouth despite being in isolation, highlighting the importance of protecting others from physical and spiritual harm.
- Does the Kohen Make a Berachah When Paskening on a NegaAn analysis of whether a Kohen recites a blessing when ruling on tzora'as, exploring opinions from the Tiferes Yisroel, Ra'avad, and Rav Aharon Leib Shteinman.
- Why Is the Bird of the Metzorah Buried in Front of HimAn exploration of why the bird of the Metzorah is buried in his presence, discussing Halachah l'Moshe m'Sinai, avoiding suspicion, and the lessons of Lashon Har
- Why Is the Slaughtered Bird Written with a VavRav Chaim Kanievsky explains the orthographic variation of the word tzippor in the context of the metzora's birds, focusing on their appearance and status.
- Why Are Cedar Wood Crimson Thread and Hyssop Used for a House with TzaraasExplore why cedar wood, crimson thread, and hyssop are used in the purification of a house with tzaraas to promote humility amidst newfound wealth.