Parshat Acharei Mot contains a unique command which relates to remembering our past in order to preserve our identity and values. This is also an integral part of sefirat ha-omer and how we commemorate Yom HaShoah.

The second half of the parsha contains a number of prohibitions, including:  “You shall not copy the practices of the land of Egypt where you dwelt or of the land of Canaan to which I am taking you…” Rather, we must follow the laws and statutes of God. How should we understand this vague command? This verse precedes the list of arayot, sexual sins. Hence, Ramban understands this as referring to the sexual promiscuity and immorality that was widespread in ancient Egyptian and Canaanite culture, from which we need to distance ourselves. Rashi, however, understands this as a broader warning: By observing the laws of Torah we move away from the generally immoral culture of ancient Egypt and Canaan and aspire to live a holy life.

Similarly, the imperative to remember our point of origin (Egypt) and to move toward holiness or freedom (Matan Torah) is the reason why we count the omer, according to the Sefer Hachinuch. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks zt”l teaches that the omer marks cyclical time (the agricultural year) as well as historical time. While it was common in the ancient near east to mark cyclical time, the Torah is unique and revolutionary in its call to count historical or “covenantal” time. Through counting, we reenact moving from Egypt to Sinai, from enslavement and exodus to revelation and positive liberty. 

This is also the way we approach and commemorate Yom HaShoah. This year in particular, we are reminded of the necessity to remember, to internalize the lessons of history and to pray that this year’s counting brings about true freedom and redemption. Shabbat Shalom -Karen Miller Jackson