He answers interestingly that these kohanim “might naturally come to think of themselves as being highly important individuals. The impure people must turn to them for help. Being in this position of spiritual power could easily lead the ‘purifiers’ to aggrandize themselves, to subtly (or not so subtly) adopt feelings of superiority. To prevent this eventuality, the Torah declares that the purifiers must themselves be rendered impure.”
Most of the volume, however, does not consist of such chiddushim. Generally speaking, Rabbi Angel either derives his ideas on the parshah from rabbinic greats – including many overlooked Sephardi rabbis – or offers general observations which are only tangentially related to the parshah.
Additionally, many of Rabbi Angel’s themes may strike readers as “conventional” or “simple.”Yet, it is often “simple” wisdom and ideas that serve as the greatest guides in life. And we can all use reminders to serve God with purity of intent (Shemot); reject materialism (Chaya Sarah); achieve true inner freedom by paradoxically submitting to God’s law (Va’eira, Yisro); distance oneselves from arrogance (Behar); avoid complacency (Pekudei); recognize the hazards of groupthink (Shoftim); and possess an ayin tova regarding one’s station in life (Tazria: “Jobs, Careers, and Callings”).
Angel for Shabbat is not a lomdish book. But it is easy to read and rich with vignettes and thoughtful insights. It would make for a wise purchase.
“Angel for Shabbat” is available at www.jewishideas.org.