1. The Unique Portion of the Kohanim
In Shlishi of Parshas Sheftim, we read that the kohanim—those who served in the Beis Hamikdash—did not inherit a portion of the land like the rest of Klal Yisroel. The Torah states, “lo yiyeh la kohanim ha-leviim kol shevet levi cheilek v’nachala im Yisroel”—the tribe of Levi, including the kohanim, did not receive a share or inheritance in Eretz Yisroel.
Rashi explains that this exclusion extended even to the spoils of war. When the nation went out to battle and collected spoils, the kohanim did not receive a portion. Nor did they receive a regular inheritance in Eretz Yisroel. Instead, there were special lands designated for certain cities—the migrash for the leviim—but not a standard share like the other tribes.
The posuk says, “ishah shev v’nachloso yecheilem,” indicating that while they do not have a normal inheritance, their portion is with Hashem. The offerings brought on Hashem’s altar and various gifts separated for Hashem become the sustenance of the kohanim. For example, when one separates terumah or maaser, it is given to Hashem, but it is actually consumed by the kohen. This is their unique portion.
2. The Deeper Meaning: Hashem as Their Inheritance
The Torah emphasizes that the reason for this arrangement is because “Hashem hu nachalosem”—Hashem is their inheritance. Metaphorically, this means that although they miss out on material portions, their true portion is their connection to Hashem.
The Rambam expands on this idea and teaches that it is not only those born into Shevet Levi who can attain this status. Anyone who chooses to dedicate his life to serving Hashem can become like a kohen. As the Rambam writes: “Lo shevet levi bilvad”—not only Shevet Levi, but anyone who makes serving Hashem his life’s mission can merit this special relationship.
This means that while such a person may lose out on some of the regular material inheritances or opportunities others enjoy, he gains something far greater: Hashem Himself as his portion and inheritance.
3. The Mishnah’s Perspective on True Wealth
This concept is echoed in Pirkei Avos: “n’sha shulchona cho godel misholahem”—“your table is greater than theirs.” The Mishnah cautions: “al tisaveh le shulchona shom elohim”—“do not desire the table of great kings,” even though it may appear they possess much.
The message is clear: what you have through your connection with Hashem surpasses all material wealth or honor found elsewhere. The spiritual inheritance of those who serve Hashem wholeheartedly is truly greater than any worldly gain.
4. Becoming Like Kohanim During Elul
Throughout most of the year, most people are not actual kohanim; we are laborers and workers engaged in daily pursuits just to sustain ourselves. However, during Elul, there is an opportunity for everyone to become like a kohen.
This month invites us to make Hashem our portion—Hashem hu nachaloseinu. Instead of focusing solely on ordinary pursuits (chelek v’nachala b’yisroel) we take extra time for prayer, learning Torah, performing mitzvos more carefully, and striving to draw closer to Hashem. In doing so, we emulate the role of the kohanim, giving up some ordinary pursuits for something higher.
5. The Shofar’s Wake-Up Call in Elul
This idea connects with another tradition: beginning from Rosh Chodesh Elul (specifically from its second day), we blow the shofar each day. As Rambam notes, while blowing shofar is a commandment without an explicit reason, it serves as a spiritual wake-up call.
The shofar rouses us from spiritual slumber and shakes us free from preoccupation with worldly vanities and burdens. It calls us to action and arouses us to return to our true purpose during these days leading up to Rosh Hashanah.
6. Awakening Desire: The Key to Change
The Rebbe writes in Hayom Yom that everything depends on one’s will (ratzon). If you truly want something, your entire being will follow that desire—all other faculties are directed by what you want most deeply.
The main task at this time is therefore to awaken our desire—avoydeh haratzon. We must strive to want what is right and good, cultivating an inner longing for closeness with Hashem and growth in mitzvos. This awakening of desire is precisely what the shofar aims to accomplish: stirring within us a yearning for spiritual elevation.
7. Standing In Place of Kohanim: Preparing for a Sweet New Year
This period allows each person to stand “bimkoim kohen”—in place of a kohen—if only temporarily. Just as when there is no kohen available for an aliyah and someone else steps in as “bimkoim kohen,” so too do we step into this elevated role during Elul by dedicating ourselves more fully to avodas Hashem.
This preparation helps us approach Rosh Hashanah ready for renewal and blessing. May we all merit a ksiva v’chasima tovah—a good inscription and sealing—and a sweet new year (shana tovah u’mesukah)!