We are introduced to a very complex parsha of the corpse found between two cities. A measurement is done and the closest city is considered liable for the death of the individual. That of course in of itself is an interesting point to reflect upon but beyond that the end of the parsha has a very fascinating twist.
Two old friends, Isaac and Shmuel, are sitting across from each other in a cramped train compartment on the long ride from New York to Chicago.
For the first hour, neither says a word.
The second hour passes. Still, silence.
By the third hour, Shmuel finally looks out the window, shakes his head sadly, and lets out a deep, world-weary sigh.
“Oy…”
The end of the parsha deals with animals that we are prohibited to consume. The commentators intertwine the theme of sanctity which defines the nation with the ban against those forbidden animals. Nachmonides and others explain that the essence of the proscribed animals is antithesis to the very nature of the Jewish people.