For the source text click/tap here: Zevachim 26
To download, click/tap here: PDF
Our new Mishna discusses cases where the blood was poured incorrectly, which renders the sacrifice invalid. Among the possible cases are
If the blood was placed on the kevesh – the ramp leading up to the altar, which is not part of the altar and is not a place for sprinkling blood for any sacrifice.
If the blood that should have been placed on the upper part of the altar was placed on the lower part or vice versa.
If the blood should have been placed on the inner altar and was placed on the outer altar or vice versa.
The Talmudic passage from our daf presents a sophisticated legal discussion concerning the validity of sacrificial offerings when procedural errors occur in the application of blood to the Altar. At its core lies a fundamental theological question: what constitutes the essential element that renders a sacrifice valid—the physical act performed correctly, or the proper intent accompanying that act? This question resonates powerfully with the first-century controversy between Paul and certain Pharisaic traditions regarding the relative importance of works (actions) versus faith (intentions, beliefs, and inner disposition) in achieving righteousness before God.