Parashat Acharei-Kedoshim What is life after death?
Saturday, April 25, 2026 Zoom at Noon
Join me this Shabbat for the double portion. It begins with Acharei Mot—“After the Death”—recalling the tragic death of Aaron’s two sons, Nadav and Avihu, who brought a “strange fire” before God, teaching us about the awe, responsibility, and discipline required in approaching the sacred. Yet from loss comes transformation, for Jewish tradition teaches that those who die in the service of God are sanctified.
The second portion, Kedoshim—“Holy Ones”—builds on that idea and calls all of us to holiness: Kedoshim tihyu—“You shall be holy.” Together these portions move us from tragedy to sanctity, from error to renewal. In this season, when everything is coming back to life and the trees are flowering, these parashot invite us to reflect on spiritual renewal and the holiness that can emerge after loss, reminding us that even after death and failure, there can be purification, rebirth, and a deeper calling to holiness.
Shabbat Shalom, and I look forward to seeing you there,
Rabbi Gadi Capela