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Leviticus 19:37 - Divine commandments define holiness.

Leviticus 19:37 - ויקרא 19:37

Hebrew Text

וּשְׁמַרְתֶּם אֶת־כָּל־חֻקֹּתַי וְאֶת־כָּל־מִשְׁפָּטַי וַעֲשִׂיתֶם אֹתָם אֲנִי יְהוָה׃

English Translation

Therefore shall you observe all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them: I am the Lord.

Transliteration

Ushmartem et kol chukotai ve'et kol mishpatai va'asitem otam ani Adonai.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּשְׁמַרְתֶּ֤ם אֶת־כׇּל־חֻקֹּתַי֙ וְאֶת־כׇּל־מִשְׁפָּטַ֔י וַעֲשִׂיתֶ֖ם אֹתָ֑ם אֲנִ֖י יְהֹוָֽה׃ <span class="mam-spi-pe">{פ}</span><br>
וּשְׁמַרְתֶּ֤ם אֶת־כׇּל־חֻקֹּתַי֙ וְאֶת־כׇּל־מִשְׁפָּטַ֔י וַעֲשִׂיתֶ֖ם אֹתָ֑ם אֲנִ֖י יְהֹוָֽה׃ {פ}

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Understanding the Verse

The verse, "וּשְׁמַרְתֶּם אֶת־כָּל־חֻקֹּתַי וְאֶת־כָּל־מִשְׁפָּטַי וַעֲשִׂיתֶם אֹתָם אֲנִי יְהוָה" (Vayikra 19:37), emphasizes the obligation to observe all of Hashem's statutes (חֻקִּים) and judgments (מִשְׁפָּטִים) and to actively perform them. The concluding phrase, "אֲנִי יְהוָה", underscores the divine authority behind these commandments.

Distinction Between חֻקִּים and מִשְׁפָּטִים

Rashi (Vayikra 19:37) explains that חֻקִּים (statutes) refer to commandments whose reasons are not readily apparent, such as the prohibition of mixing wool and linen (שַׁעַטְנֵז) or the laws of kashrut. These are decrees from Hashem that we follow out of obedience, even if their rationale is unclear. On the other hand, מִשְׁפָּטִים (judgments) are commandments that align with human logic and ethical principles, such as prohibitions against theft or murder, which society would likely establish even without divine revelation.

The Importance of Action: "וַעֲשִׂיתֶם אֹתָם"

The Rambam (Hilchos De'os 1:7) emphasizes that the verse commands not only knowledge of the mitzvos but their actual performance. Mere intellectual understanding is insufficient—Torah observance requires practical implementation in daily life. The Sforno adds that the phrase "וַעֲשִׂיתֶם אֹתָם" implies consistency and diligence in fulfilling mitzvos, not just occasional observance.

Divine Authority: "אֲנִי יְהוָה"

The concluding words, "אֲנִי יְהוָה", serve as a reminder that these commandments are binding because they originate from Hashem Himself. The Midrash (Sifra, Kedoshim 10:12) teaches that this phrase reinforces the idea that we observe mitzvos not for personal gain or societal approval, but because they are the will of the Creator. The Ramban (Vayikra 19:37) further explains that this declaration connects the mitzvos to our emunah (faith) in Hashem’s unity and sovereignty.

Practical Lessons from the Verse

  • Acceptance of Divine Will: The verse teaches us to accept both חֻקִּים and מִשְׁפָּטִים with equal reverence, recognizing that all mitzvos stem from Hashem’s wisdom.
  • Active Observance: Torah is not theoretical; it demands action. We must strive to embody mitzvos in our deeds, not just our thoughts.
  • Faith in Hashem: The declaration "אֲנִי יְהוָה" reminds us that our commitment to mitzvos is rooted in our relationship with the Almighty.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 67b
The verse is cited in a discussion about the importance of observing God's commandments, emphasizing that they should be followed because they are divine decrees.
📖 Sanhedrin 56b
The verse is referenced in the context of the Noahide laws, illustrating the broader principle that divine commandments must be upheld.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Leviticus 19:37 mean?
A: Leviticus 19:37 commands the Jewish people to observe all of Hashem's statutes (חֻקִּים) and judgments (מִשְׁפָּטִים). Rashi explains that 'statutes' refer to mitzvot whose reasons are not obvious (like kashrut), while 'judgments' are logical laws (like honoring parents). The verse concludes by emphasizing that these commandments come from Hashem.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse is important because it summarizes the obligation to keep all Torah commandments. The Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 1:1) teaches that this foundation - accepting mitzvot because they are commanded by Hashem - is fundamental to Jewish belief. The Talmud (Makkot 24a) also sees this as an overarching principle of Torah observance.
Q: What can we learn from 'I am the Lord' at the end of the verse?
A: The Sforno explains that 'I am the Lord' reminds us we must perform mitzvot solely because Hashem commanded them, not because we personally agree with them. The Midrash (Sifra Kedoshim) adds that this phrase teaches that just as Hashem is eternal, so too are His commandments eternal obligations.
Q: How does Leviticus 19:37 apply to Jews today?
A: This verse applies today by reminding us to observe all mitzvot - both those we understand and those we don't. The Chofetz Chaim teaches that this includes both 'between man and G-d' commandments (like Shabbat) and 'between man and man' commandments (like ethical behavior). The verse's conclusion ('I am the Lord') inspires us to perform mitzvot with proper intention.
Q: What's the difference between 'statutes' (chukim) and 'judgments' (mishpatim) in this verse?
A: Rashi (based on Yoma 67b) explains: 'Statutes' (chukim) are mitzvot that seem irrational to human understanding (like not mixing wool and linen), while 'judgments' (mishpatim) are logical laws that society would establish anyway (like prohibitions against stealing). Both must be observed equally as divine commandments.