Parasha Summary
Parashat Kedoshim, found in Vayikra (Leviticus) 19-20, opens with the command to be holy, as Hashem is holy. It details ethical and ritual laws, emphasizing interpersonal obligations—honoring parents, leaving gleanings for the poor, honesty in business, and loving one’s neighbor. The parasha also includes prohibitions against idolatry, sorcery, and forbidden relationships. Central is the principle of "V’ahavta l’re’acha kamocha" (love your neighbor as yourself), which Rabbi Akiva calls a fundamental Torah principle. Kedoshim underscores that holiness is achieved through both ritual observance and ethical conduct, integrating divine service with moral behavior in daily life.
