Naso
(Num. 4:21-7:89) 

By Jen Smith, Guest Torah Blogger

This week’s Torah portion, Naso, is the longest portion spanning an incredibly wide range of topics capturing the multifaceted nature of our spiritual journeys. From the census of the Levite families to the details of camp purification, the laws of the Sotah (a woman accused of adultery), the Nazarite vows, and finally, the Priestly Blessing, this portion is packed with profound teachings that offer rich insights into our relationship with God and the pursuit of holiness. 

The Nazarite vow is a voluntary commitment taken by individuals who seek a period of heightened spirituality and closeness to God. The Nazarite abstains from wine, refrains from cutting their hair, and avoids any contact with the dead. On the surface, these restrictions might seem like a form of asceticism, suggesting that spiritual growth is achieved primarily through denial.  However, the Nazarite vow, with its restrictions and acts of abstention, highlights an essential aspect of spiritual growth: the deliberate choice to step away from the distractions of everyday life to focus on a higher purpose. This voluntary asceticism is not meant to deny life’s pleasures permanently, but to create a space for deeper introspection and connection with the Divine. The Nazarite’s uncut hair and abstention from wine serve as physical manifestations of their inner dedication, symbolizing a period of intense spiritual focus.  

But how can it be that abstaining from life’s pleasures is the only path to holiness? God instructs Moses to teach Aaron and his sons to bless the Israelites with these words (Num. 6:24-26), which offers a complimentary perspective:  

May the Lord bless you and protect you.
May the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you.
May the Lord lift His countenance upon you and grant you peace. 

The Priestly Blessing, with its emphasis on God’s grace, protection, and peace, presents a complementary vision of holiness that embraces life’s joys and blessings. It suggests that experiencing and appreciating the goodness in our lives is also a path to divine connection. This duality reflects a profound truth: spirituality encompasses both withdrawal and engagement, asceticism and celebration. It reveals a vision of holiness that embraces life’s blessings and joys, suggesting that engaging with the world and experiencing its pleasures can also serve us in deepening our divine connection. 

Together, the Nazarite vow and the Priestly Blessing illustrate a balanced view of spirituality. There are times in our lives when we must withdraw from communal life and focus on inward reflection. Yet, we also learn that embracing life’s pleasures with mindfulness and gratitude can deepen our appreciation for God’s blessings. Celebrating joyfully with loved ones and enjoying the beauty of the world can be acts of worship and connection. 

In reflecting on these teachings, a question remains: How do we find the balance between asceticism and engagement in our own spiritual journeys?  

May we all be blessed with the wisdom to know when to step back and when to step forward, embracing the discipline of the Nazarite and embodying the Priestly Blessings. Shabbat Shalom.