A nazir is a person who voluntarily takes an oath to remain pure and holy in the service of Hashem. At the conclusion of his self-imposed vow, the nazir must bring a korban (sacrifice). The reason for this korban is puzzling. A sacrifice of this type is normally brought as a sin offering. This sacrifice, on the other hand, is offered at the completion of a great mitzvah. The nazir has just spent time devoting himself to Hashem, removing himself from the pleasures and delights of the world. Why must he bring a sacrifice?
Rabbeinu Bechaya explains that this korban is brought because it appears as if the nazir is removing himself from Hashem. Although he is only returning to his normal state of service, moving from a higher level to a lower level appears to be a misdeed and requires a sacrifice. If the nazir did not actually commit a sin but merely seemed to, why is he obligated to bring a korban?
R’ Henach Leibowitz zt”l explains that the korban of the nazir is teaching us a lesson with far-reaching ramifications. Although our actions may be well within the limits of halacha, the mere appearance of impropriety is in itself a sin. Rabbeinu Bechaya is telling us that acting in a way that seems to be wrong but isn't and actually committing a sin have a comparable effect on us.
This korban sheds a new light on the importance of our actions. Everything we do, whether spiritual or mundane, has an impact on us. We will be taken to task for all our actions, even those that merely appear to be improper. The way we dress, eat, and speak must be appropriate for one who is in the service of Hashem. If it seems that we are speaking lashon hara, or it appears that we are acting disrespectfully towards our fellow man, we have committed a sin. If it looks and feels wrong, then it truly is like a sin.
