share torah logo

Exodus 19:6 - Israel's holy priestly mission?

Exodus 19:6 - שמות 19:6

Hebrew Text

וְאַתֶּם תִּהְיוּ־לִי מַמְלֶכֶת כֹּהֲנִים וְגוֹי קָדוֹשׁ אֵלֶּה הַדְּבָרִים אֲשֶׁר תְּדַבֵּר אֶל־בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak to the children of Yisra᾽el.

Transliteration

Ve'atem tihyu-li mamlekhet kohanim vegoy kadosh, eleh hadevarim asher tedaber el-bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְאַתֶּ֧ם תִּהְיוּ־לִ֛י מַמְלֶ֥כֶת כֹּהֲנִ֖ים וְג֣וֹי קָד֑וֹשׁ אֵ֚לֶּה הַדְּבָרִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר תְּדַבֵּ֖ר אֶל־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
וְאַתֶּ֧ם תִּהְיוּ־לִ֛י מַמְלֶ֥כֶת כֹּהֲנִ֖ים וְג֣וֹי קָד֑וֹשׁ אֵ֚לֶּה הַדְּבָרִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר תְּדַבֵּ֖ר אֶל־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Concept of a "Kingdom of Priests"

Rashi explains that the term "מַמְלֶכֶת כֹּהֲנִים" (kingdom of priests) means that the entire nation of Israel is elevated to a status akin to that of the Kohanim (priests), serving as intermediaries between Hashem and the rest of the world. Unlike other nations, where only a select few serve in a priestly role, Klal Yisrael as a whole is designated for divine service.

The Meaning of a "Holy Nation"

The Ramban (Nachmanides) elaborates on "גּוֹי קָדוֹשׁ" (holy nation), stating that kedushah (holiness) requires separation from impurity and dedication to Hashem’s commandments. The Sforno adds that this holiness is not innate but must be actively pursued through Torah observance and ethical conduct, distinguishing Bnei Yisrael as a nation set apart for a divine purpose.

Midrashic Interpretations

The Mechilta (a halachic Midrash on Shemos) teaches that this verse underscores the unique relationship between Hashem and Israel. Just as Kohanim are entrusted with the service of the Mishkan, so too is Israel entrusted with bringing divine light to the world. The Midrash Tanchuma further compares Israel to the "first fruits" (ביכורים), symbolizing their elevated role among nations.

  • Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 1:1) – Emphasizes that Israel’s holiness is tied to knowledge of Hashem and adherence to mitzvos.
  • Ohr HaChaim (Shemos 19:6) – Suggests that "kingdom of priests" implies leadership in spiritual matters, guiding humanity toward truth.

Practical Implications

The Talmud (Yevamos 46a) derives from this verse that every Jew must strive for personal kedushah, mirroring the sanctity required of Kohanim. The Kli Yakar stresses that this mandate is conditional—holiness is only achieved through Torah study, mitzvah observance, and moral refinement.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Shabbat 88a
The verse is referenced in the context of discussing the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai and the unique relationship between God and the Jewish people.
📖 Sanhedrin 59a
The verse is cited in a discussion about the special status of the Jewish people as a holy nation and their responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'a kingdom of priests and a holy nation' mean in Exodus 19:6?
A: Rashi explains that 'a kingdom of priests' means that the Jewish people are elevated to serve Hashem like priests, guiding the world in divine service. 'A holy nation' refers to being set apart for Torah and mitzvot, living a life of sanctity.
Q: Why is Exodus 19:6 important in Judaism?
A: This verse is central because it defines the unique role of the Jewish people as a nation chosen to uphold Torah values and bring holiness into the world. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches that this mission is the foundation of our covenant with Hashem at Mount Sinai.
Q: How can we apply 'a kingdom of priests and a holy nation' today?
A: The Midrash teaches that every Jew has the responsibility to act with kedushah (holiness) in daily life—through Torah study, prayer, and ethical behavior. Just as priests serve in the Beit HaMikdash, we sanctify ordinary actions by performing them for the sake of Heaven.
Q: What is the connection between Exodus 19:6 and the giving of the Torah?
A: The Talmud (Shabbat 88a) states that this verse was spoken before Matan Torah (the giving of the Torah) to prepare Bnei Yisrael for their divine mission. Accepting the Torah made them 'a holy nation,' bound to its laws and teachings.
Q: Does 'a kingdom of priests' mean all Jews are literally kohanim (priests)?
A: No, the Kli Yakar clarifies that while the kohanim have a special role in the Beit HaMikdash, all Jews are called to be 'priests' in a broader sense—by teaching Torah values (as Malachi 2:7 says, 'For a priest’s lips should guard knowledge') and serving as spiritual examples.