בס "ד

Parashat Emor  Go Talk

This week’s Torah reading is called Emor, which means: “Talk!”. When we look around in Torah a specific order and commandment to talk, we find that the Torah indicates not to talk so much… What does a commandment to talk mean, then? Based on Likkutei Sichot, vol. 27, p. 158

The Power of Speech: A Lesson from Emor

Introduction: More Than Laws

La porzione della Torah di questa settimana, Emor—which means “to speak”—invites us to reflect not only on its detailed laws, but on the deeper meaning behind its name. While the portion discusses topics such as ritual purity for priests, physical blemishes that disqualify a priest from Temple service, and the sanctity of the Jewish people, the Torah is not merely a historical or legal text. It is a guide filled with lessons for everyone, in every generation.

What Does “To Speak” Really Mean?

At first glance, the name Emor seems straightforward: it is a command to speak. But this raises an important question—what kind of speech is the Torah referring to?

It cannot simply mean prayer, because prayer is described elsewhere as “service of the heart.” Nor does it refer to Torah study, which is also commanded in other verses. In fact, our Sages often caution against excessive speech. They teach that one should “say little and do much,” and even praise silence as one of the greatest virtues. Speech, after all, carries immense power: “Life and death are in the hands of the tongue.” Words can uplift—but they can also harm.

A Teaching from the Rambam

A deeper insight comes from the teachings of the Rambam (Maimonides), who discusses how a person should use their power of speech. He brings two teachings of the Sages side by side, suggesting a meaningful connection between them.

First, he teaches that a person should judge others favorably—even those whose behavior seems questionable. Second, he says that one should speak about the positive qualities of others.

By placing these ideas together, the Rambam reveals something profound: the kind of speech we are commanded to use is speech that highlights the good in others—even in those who may not appear deserving of praise.

Why Speak Positively About Others?

This raises a natural question: why should we speak positively about someone who seems to act negatively?

The answer lies in the transformative power of speech itself.

The Creative Power of Words

When G-d “speaks” in the Torah—“Let there be light”—His words create reality. Although human speech does not have the same absolute creative force, it still carries a remarkable ability: our words shape the emotional and spiritual reality of those around us.

When we speak positively about someone, we awaken and strengthen the good within them. When we speak negatively, we risk bringing out the opposite.

In this sense, human speech mirrors Divine speech. While we cannot create physical objects with our words, we can create something just as impactful: character, confidence, and connection in others.

The Danger of Negative Speech

This is why negative speech—often referred to as lashon hara—is considered so harmful. It doesn’t just describe reality; it can actually influence and worsen it. Negative words can damage relationships, lower self-worth, and even shape how a person behaves.

The Message of Emor

The message of Emor becomes clear: speech is not merely a tool for communication—it is a tool for creation. We are called upon to use it wisely, to speak goodness into the world, and to help others become the best versions of themselves.

Un invito all'azione

If each of us commits to this—speaking kindly, judging fairly, and focusing on the positive—we can collectively transform the atmosphere around us. In doing so, we not only improve our relationships and communities, but also align ourselves with a higher purpose.

And perhaps, when we use our power of speech in the right way, we bring the world one step closer to redemption..

Discorso del rabbino Tuvia Serber


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