*This post is a d’var torah delivered by Ethan Khan ’26 at Villanova University.
This week’s parshah is titled “Acharei Mot”, which translates to “after the death.” The text opens after the death of Aaron’s two sons and transitions to a description of pure vs. impure, before and after, and one stage to the next. The Yom Kippur service and accompanying rituals are then introduced, but it is key to note that this ceremony does not create the change – rather, it is there to signify it, to provide something to mark the transition with.
Graduation is our “Acharei Mot” moment, though not a tragic instance; something real and significant is still ending: our whole world of routine, friends, community, and more that has been our identity for the last four years. Our status is changing, from students to whatever role we assume next, moving from a college campus and into the real world. The change is inevitable; life will always keep moving. The question is how we experience that transition and how we stay true to ourselves as we enter a new chapter. So, what marks this major transition in our lives?
In my family, this ritual is tangible; my grandfather was a watchmaker and repairman, as a result, my parents mark big transitions, such as graduating, with a watch. Though it is a seemingly small gesture, it is parallel to Acharei Mot.
The moment happens anyway, but marking it gives it special significance, and in this case, something to pass down for generations. It ties to my lineage, to the hands of my ancestors, and to the next chapter of my family’s story that I will write – it allows me to connect to an ongoing tradition and remember where I come from.
The significance of this parshah, and moments of transition, can’t be understated. The beauty of life is often found in its impermanence. Things end, people move, and life does go on. Instead of ignoring these feelings, the Torah invites us to accept them, to bring them to the forefront with rituals, and to delve into introspection. So, as we stand here at the end of college, at our own “after the ending” moment, I want to ask – what moment of transition have you (or will you) go through, and how will you give it significance, whether that be a ritual, or something else meaningful to you?
And of course, I want to thank Rachel, and though they are not here, Lauren, Micki, and Sean, for all their guidance and care throughout college. And to all of you, thank you for being my second family here in Villanova. I couldn’t imagine the last four years without you. Love you, guys.