The Law
Hashem instructed Moses and Aaron to educate the Israelites on the ritual Law regarding the Red Heifer (פָרָה אֲדֻמָּה, parah adumah) used for the water of purification. The heifer must be at least in its third year (i.e., two years plus a bit) and be red. Even the presence of two hairs of a different color near each other, or three hairs far apart, renders it unsuitable. Any physical blemishes that would disqualify sacrificial animals also disqualify a red heifer. Any interaction or work performed with the heifer disqualifies it, including leaning on it, placing a garment or cloth upon it (unless solely for the animal's protection), or putting a yoke on it, regardless of whether it performs any work. Furthermore, pregnancy or mating by a male disqualifies the heifer.
Elazar, the Kohen, was designated to lead the cow outside the camp, oversee its sacrifice, and sprinkle its blood seven times towards the Tabernacle. The cow and cedar wood, hyssop, and crimson wool were transformed into ash. Both the priest and the individual responsible for burning the cow were to purify their garments, cleanse themselves by bathing in water, and retain a state of impurity until evening.
Why?
The water was utilized to purify individuals who had come into contact with a human corpse, resulting in seven days of impurity. On the third and seventh days, those in contact with the corpse needed to purify themselves with the water of purity to regain their state of purity. Neglecting to do so would result in continued impurity, defilement of the Tabernacle, and ostracism from Israel.
Why do we read about it now?
The reading of Parshas Parah is a customary practice during this season, notably stemming from the Jewish tradition of purification preceding the journey to Jerusalem for the Passover pilgrimage festival. Two Torah Scrolls are reverently removed from the Ark on the Shabbas post-Purim. The weekly Sidrah is recited from the first scroll, followed by the second chapter of Parah Adumah, focusing on the sacred Red Cow (or Red Heifer).
The Haftarah
The Haftarah recited on the Sabbath of Parashas Parah incorporates the verse, "And I shall sprinkle pure water upon you, that you be cleansed. From all your contamination and from all your filth I will cleanse you" (Ezekiel 36:25). It draws parallels between sin symbolized by contamination and atonement symbolized by purity, within the context of Parshas Parah.
Beyond Comprehension
This Halacha of the Red Heifer exemplifies the Law of the Torah, revered for its transcendence beyond human understanding. An intriguing paradox emerges as individuals handling the cow's ashes incur ritual impurity, yet when mixed with water, the same ashes are used for purification. This Law epitomizes a concept requiring faith for acceptance.
How Rare Are They?
Locating a red heifer that meets all specified criteria is rare, prompting excitement upon discovery. Nine red heifers were presented from the initial command to fulfill this mitzvah until the Second Temple's destruction. Moshe brought the first, followed by Ezra with the second. Subsequently, seven others were offered before the Second Temple's demise. The tenth heifer is expected to be brought by King Moshiach; may his revelation be swift. Amen, as may it align with G‑d's will.
The article references authoritative sources such as Rambam and verified prior knowledge. For further information, the following sources are cited:
1. The Wikipedia page on the Red Heifer: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_heifer
2. Chabad.org article on the rarity of a Red Heifer: https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/3613245/jewish/For-Real-How-Rare-Is-a-Red-Heifer.htm