Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 26:19 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 26:19 describes the special relationship between Hashem and the Jewish people. It states that Hashem will elevate Israel above all other nations, giving them praise, renown, and glory, and that they will be a holy people dedicated to Hashem. This reflects the covenant between G-d and Israel, emphasizing their unique spiritual mission.
Q: Why is being a 'holy people' important in this verse?
A: Being a 'holy people' (עַם־קָדֹשׁ) means that the Jewish people are set apart to serve Hashem with devotion and fulfill the Torah's commandments. Rashi explains that holiness comes through observing mitzvot (commandments) and living a life dedicated to spiritual growth. This holiness is not just for personal elevation but to inspire others through righteous living.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jews today?
A: This verse reminds Jews today of their ongoing mission to live as a holy nation by following Torah and mitzvot. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches that every Jew has the responsibility to sanctify themselves through ethical behavior, prayer, and Torah study. By doing so, they fulfill their role as a 'light unto the nations' (Isaiah 42:6).
Q: What does 'praise, name, and honor' refer to in this verse?
A: The terms 'praise' (תְהִלָּה), 'name' (שֵׁם), and 'honor' (תִפְאָרֶת) signify the elevated spiritual status of the Jewish people when they fulfill their covenant with Hashem. The Midrash explains that when Jews live righteously, they bring honor to Hashem’s name in the world, and their deeds become a source of blessing and inspiration.
Q: Does this verse mean Jews are superior to other nations?
A: No, this verse does not imply superiority in a worldly sense. Rather, it highlights the unique spiritual responsibility of the Jewish people to serve as a model of holiness. The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 2b) teaches that all righteous nations have a share in the World to Come, but Israel was chosen for a specific Torah-based mission.
Elevation of Israel Among Nations
The verse (Devarim 26:19) describes Hashem's promise to elevate Israel above all other nations in praise (תְּהִלָּה), name (שֵׁם), and honor (תִּפְאָרֶת). Rashi explains that this elevation is conditional upon Israel fulfilling their covenant with Hashem. The Sifrei (Devarim 26:19) elaborates that when Israel observes the mitzvot, they become a source of admiration among the nations, who will acknowledge their wisdom and righteousness (see also Devarim 4:6).
The Purpose of Israel's Holiness
The phrase "to be a holy people to Hashem your God" emphasizes that Israel's distinction is not for personal glory but for divine service. Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 9:1) teaches that true elevation comes through sanctifying Hashem's name by living according to Torah. The Or HaChaim (Devarim 26:19) adds that holiness is intrinsic to Israel's identity, as stated in Vayikra 19:2 ("You shall be holy, for I, Hashem your God, am holy").
The Fulfillment of Divine Promise
The concluding words—"as He has spoken"—refer to earlier covenants, such as Shemot 19:6 ("a kingdom of priests and a holy nation"). The Malbim notes that this reaffirms the eternal nature of Hashem's promises, contingent only on Israel's faithfulness. The Midrash Tanchuma (Nitzavim 1) links this to the ultimate redemption, where Israel's sanctity will be fully realized.
Key Themes in Traditional Sources