The thirty-second reading from the Torah and second-to-last reading from the book of Leviticus is called Behar, which literally means “on the mountain.” The name comes from the first words of the first verse of the reading, which could be translated to read, “The LORD then spoke to Moses on Mount Sinai” (Leviticus 25:1). This portion from the Torah introduces the laws of the sabbatical years, the jubilee, and laws concerning redemption. In most years, synagogues read Behar together with the following portion, Bechukotai.
The last reading from the book of Leviticus is called Bechukotai, which means “in my statutes.” The name comes from the first verse of the reading, which begins with the words “If you walk in My statutes” (Leviticus 26:3). This last reading from Leviticus promises blessings and rewards for Israel if they will keep the Torah but punishment and curses if they break the commandments of the Torah. The last chapter discusses laws pertaining to vows, valuations, and tithes. In most years, synagogues read Bechukotai together with the preceding portion, Behar.