In Parashat Emor, the Torah introduces one of the most unusual services of the Holy Temple: the lechem hapanim, the Showbread — twelve specially baked loaves that are 'placed before God' each week, remaining warm and fresh from Shabbat to Shabbat. What was the purpose of this bread? Why was it placed 'before God' and what does it mean for us today? The Torah portion of Emor ( Leviticus 21 : 1 - 24 : 23 ) is read on Shabbat, 15 Iyar 5786 - May 2, 2026 Rabbi Chaim Richman Jerusalem Lights | Torah for Everyone