The sage advice going around nowadays is to minimize conversations about these three topics: politics, sports and religion. You are bound to disagree and you will need a spreadsheet to keep track of your counterpart’s nuanced position.
This week’s parsha illustrates a powerful lesson of the value of nuanced diversity.
The third book of the Torah, Vayikra, communicates the intricate details pertaining mostly to the Temple service. The opening sections discuss the laws of voluntary sacrifices at length. A sacrifice of livestock is called a Korban and a grain offering is called a Mincha. Sacrificial gifts to G-d could consist of 1000 fattened bulls, or merely several pounds of flour.
While the options are open to all, there is a clear expectation that a Jew of means would be sure to offer a sacrifice to G-d befitting his financial capabilities. After all, G-d sees the books!
Upon introducing the Mincha (grain/flour) offering the Torah prefaces (Leviticus 2:1): When a nefesh - a soul - will offer a Mincha (meal offering)… Rashi comments on this uncharacteristic expression: A voluntary Mincha offering was the sacrifice of the pauper. Even though it seems meager in comparison to the fattened bulls of the oligarch, G-d considers the offering of a few pounds of flour as if the pauper has offered his entire life.
We are all granted different gifts in life and no two people are the same. Although the teachings of the Torah and the 613 Mitzvoth are uniformly the heritage and obligation of every Jew, implementation will depend on many variables.
For example, in all matters of charity the Torah never determines a set amount for all to give. Either we are obligated to give a certain percentage of our earnings, or in some cases, the exact amount is up to the discretion of the individual. Often, the overarching rule is (Deuteronomy 16:17): Each according to his ability to give, according to the blessing that G-d has bestowed upon you.
Quantity in context is the determining factor of quality. An $18 donation can be a sacrifice for one and spare pocket change for another. Five minutes of Torah study each day can be a spiritual leap for one and neglect of academic prowess for another.
Be sure to give G-d your very best!