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      10. RASHI METHOD: SYMBOLISM
      BRIEF EXPLANATION: Rashi provides symbolic interpretations of words, verses, and chapters. Rashi can symbolically interpret either
      • (10a) entire Biblical chapters such as the gifts of the princes, Nu-07
      • (10b) individual items, verses and words
      The rules governing symbolism and symbolic interpretation are presented in detail on my website.
      This examples applies to Rashis Ex20-21d
      URL Reference: (c) http://www.Rashiyomi.com/rule1206.htm
      Brief Summary: The altar SYMBOLIZING peace should not be made from cut stones less swords SYMBOLIZING war should be used on them profaning their symbolism.

Verses Ex20-21:22 discussing the requirement to build an altar in the Temple states An altar of earth you shall make to me, and shall sacrifice on it your burnt offerings, and your peace offerings, your sheep, and your oxen; in all places where I cause my name to be pronounced I will come to you, and I will bless you. But when you will make me an altar of stone, you shall not build it of a cut stone; less you lift up your sword upon it, and thereby profane it.

The verse implies that using a steel sword to construct an altar would somehow profane it. Rashi clarifies: The altar symbolizes peaceful concepts such as atonement, thanksgiving, and holiday celebration. By contrast steel utensils symbolize destructive concepts such as swords and other weapons of destruction. If the altar was constructed with steel then its symbolic image would be profaned. By prohibiting the construction of the altar with steel we intensify the image of peace which the altar symbolizes. 


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