Leviticus Rabbah on Serving God without the Temple

R. Aḥa [said] in the name of R. Ḥanina bar Papa: Since when the Temple was standing Israel would offer all the sacrifices in the Torah, why do they now [study the laws] of [the sacrifices]? The Holy One said to them: Since you are [studying] them, I consider it as if you actually offered them.

R. Huna said: All the exiles will only be gathered due to the merit of study. That is why it is written: And while they are recounting among the nations, there I will gather them (Hosea 8:10). R. Huna gave another [interpretation]: For from where the sun rises to where it sets, My name is honored among the nations, and everywhere incense and pure oblation are offered [to My name] (Malachi 1:11, NJPS). Are there handfuls [of incense] and burning [of incense] in Babylonia? Rather, the Holy One said: Since you are [studying] them, consider it as if you actually offered a sacrifice. Samuel said: When they are ashamed of all they have done, [make known to them the plan of the Temple and its layout, its exits and entrances—its entire plan] (Ezekiel 43:11, NJPS). Does the form of the Temple exist now? Rather, the Holy One said: Since you are [studying] it, it is as if you were building it. R. Asi said: Why do they begin children [studying] with Leviticus? Let them begin with Genesis. The Holy One said: Since sacrifices are pure and children are pure, let those who are pure come and deal with that which is pure.¹