The laws of Para Adumah, the Red Heifer (BaMidbar Chapter 19) are introduced as ‘This is the ordinance of the Torah which the Lord has commanded, . . . .’ (BaMidbar 19:2) Chok, ordinance is explained by Rashi ZT’L ZY’A As a rite without any reason or anchor in discernable logic which renders it as an object of derision by which Satan or the nations could mock Jewry. Even so this is a D-vine ordinance which one is not at liberty to challenge. The Midrashim (Rabbah BaMidbar 19:3, Tanchuma 6) and followed by the Seforno quote King Solomon “All this have I proved by wisdom; I said, I will be wise; but it was far from me.” (Koheleth 7:23)

It is fascinating that the Red Heifer is not categorized as a mystery but as elusive wisdom distant from the human ken.. The implication is there is a intellectual, logical and rational basis even for the Red Heifer. Additionally the text reads “This is the ordinance of the Torah . . . .” a general statement applicable to the whole of Torah. the Meir Eniym of Chernobyl ZT’L ZY’A offers the notion that the commandments exist on two levels. On the one hand there is a level of revelation of reason where logic and analysis are apparent. However there is a deeper level of connection a connection to Ein Sof , G-D at His essence a place beyond Human comprehension.

Rabbi Nathan of Breslev ZT’L ZY’A in Lekutei Halachot takes a different approach. Ultimately any attempt to logically and philosophically explain the commandments are inadequate and will not satisfy Torah’s detractors. Rather than being a place of searching for an distant wisdom one’s connection to Torah should follow an attitude guided by faith and belief in G-D’s wisdom and that matters is to render loyal service to G-D. Not just a blind faith but a belief characterized by a recognition that whatever one’s situation G-D is acting in one’s best interests. only seeking one’s opportunity to succeed.

Both Rabbis’ approaches allude to an attitude of dynamic belief. Faith is not an an academic compellation of platitudes or sound bites. Knowing there is a D-vine origin to all things and all circumstances recasts one’s world view. How much energy wasted on what if or would’ve, could have should have as well as anger and frustration? Looking at one’s circumstances one can take a lesson from the Red Heifer though there is wisdom within it lies past one’s intellect but it is G-D’s wisdom it can be relied on. Throughout when asking why? The Red Heifer offers an answer.