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Leviticus 18:2 - Divine identity defines holiness.

Leviticus 18:2 - ויקרא 18:2

Hebrew Text

דַּבֵּר אֶל־בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל וְאָמַרְתָּ אֲלֵהֶם אֲנִי יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם׃

English Translation

Speak to the children of Yisra᾽el, and say to them, I am the Lord your God.

Transliteration

Daber el-bnei Yisrael ve'amarta alehem ani Adonai Eloheichem.

Hebrew Leining Text

דַּבֵּר֙ אֶל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל וְאָמַרְתָּ֖ אֲלֵהֶ֑ם אֲנִ֖י יְהֹוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶֽם׃
דַּבֵּר֙ אֶל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל וְאָמַרְתָּ֖ אֲלֵהֶ֑ם אֲנִ֖י יְהֹוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶֽם׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah

The verse "דַּבֵּר אֶל־בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל וְאָמַרְתָּ אֲלֵהֶם אֲנִי יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם" (Speak to the children of Israel and say to them, I am the Lord your God) appears in Vayikra (Leviticus) 18:2, introducing the section of forbidden relationships. Rashi explains that this opening declaration emphasizes that adherence to these laws is rooted in the foundational relationship between Hashem and the Jewish people.

The Significance of "Ani Hashem Elokeichem"

Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 1:1) teaches that this phrase establishes the first of the Aseres HaDibros (Ten Commandments), affirming Hashem as the ultimate authority and source of mitzvos. The Midrash (Sifra Kedoshim 1:1) elaborates that this declaration reminds Bnei Yisrael of their unique covenant with Hashem, obligating them to sanctify themselves through His commandments.

Connection to Kedushah (Holiness)

The Ohr HaChaim notes that the placement of this verse before the laws of forbidden relationships underscores that moral purity is intrinsic to the Jewish mission. By stating "I am Hashem your God", the Torah reinforces that these laws are not arbitrary but reflect divine will, elevating Bnei Yisrael to a higher spiritual standard.

Key Teachings from Commentators

  • Rashi: The repetition of "speak" and "say" (daber and v'amarta) teaches that Moshe was to deliver these words with clarity and emphasis.
  • Ramban: The phrase "I am Hashem your God" serves as both a reminder of divine authority and a promise that observing these laws brings closeness to Hashem.
  • Sforno: This declaration distinguishes Bnei Yisrael from other nations, as their moral conduct must align with their identity as Hashem's chosen people.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 13b
The verse is discussed in the context of the recitation of the Shema, emphasizing the importance of accepting the yoke of the Kingdom of Heaven.
📖 Sanhedrin 90b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the fundamentals of faith and the belief in God as a core principle of Judaism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'I am the Lord your God' mean in Leviticus 18:2?
A: This verse is a foundational statement of faith in Judaism, affirming that Hashem (God) is the one and only God of Israel. Rashi explains that this declaration establishes God's authority to command the Jewish people, as He is their Creator and Redeemer. It reminds us that all mitzvot (commandments) come from Him.
Q: Why does the verse say 'Speak to the children of Israel' specifically?
A: The Rambam teaches that the Torah addresses the Jewish people directly because we entered into a special covenant with God at Mount Sinai. This verse introduces laws of moral conduct (later in the chapter), showing that our relationship with God requires us to live in a holy manner distinct from other nations.
Q: How is 'I am the Lord your God' relevant today?
A: This verse remains central in Jewish life. We recite it daily in the Shema prayer, reaffirming our bond with God. The Sages teach that accepting God's sovereignty (as stated here) is the first step in spiritual growth and guides all Torah observance. It reminds us that God is present in every aspect of our lives.
Q: Why does God say 'your God' instead of just 'I am God'?
A: The Midrash explains the possessive 'your God' emphasizes the personal relationship between Hashem and each Jew. The Talmud (Berachot 35b) derives from this that we must acknowledge God's presence in both spiritual matters and physical activities - making even mundane actions holy by doing them for God's sake.
Q: What lesson can we learn from this short verse?
A: The verse teaches two fundamentals: 1) God communicates with us through Torah (shown by 'Speak to the children of Israel'), and 2) Our actions must reflect awareness of God (shown by 'I am the Lord your God'). The Kli Yakar adds that this introduction warns us to follow God's laws rather than imitating other nations' behaviors discussed later in the chapter.