Page 354 - BAMIDBAR

The mitzvah of parah adumah is a decree which we cannot understand.
Why does the Torah command that specifically a cow should be used, and
why must it be completely red? There are so many details which are
beyond our comprehension. But we can attempt to explain the underlying
meaning behind the cedar wood, the crimson thread, and the hyssop
branch.

Shlomo Hamelech tried to understand this mitzvah, but remained
unsuccessful. The only one who knew the reasons for all mitzvot was
Moshe Rabbeinu. This was a reward for his exertion in bringing the Torah
to Bnei Yisrael.

Let us try to gain some taste of this mitzvah. If a person becomes tamei,
it is an indication that he is being notified of an aspect of his character
which needs correction. On the other hand, one who constantly guards
himself from that which is forbidden will receive Heavenly assistance, as
the pasuk states, “He guards the steps of His devout ones.”

Pinchas is an example of one who receives Heavenly protection when he
makes the first move. He saw an act of immorality and took the initiative
to rectify the matter. He spared no effort in spearing both Zimri and
Kuzbi, the sinners. But Hashem did not let them die immediately. Pinchas
was able to first put down his spear and thereby did not become defiled
by their dead bodies.

The cedar wood brought together with the ashes of the red heifer alludes
to the tzaddikim, bearers of the Torah. But they must constantly remember
that glory belongs solely to the Torah. In spite of all their Torah
knowledge, they may not accredit themselves with personal pride. The

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