Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'You shall keep my Sabbaths' mean in Leviticus 19:30?
A: This verse commands the Jewish people to observe and sanctify the Shabbat (Sabbath) as a day of rest and holiness. According to Rashi and the Talmud (Shabbat 118b), keeping Shabbat includes refraining from the 39 categories of forbidden labor and dedicating the day to spiritual growth, prayer, and Torah study.
Q: Why does the verse say 'reverence my sanctuary'?
A: The phrase 'reverence my sanctuary' teaches us to show deep respect for the Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple) and, by extension, synagogues and places of Torah study today. The Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechira 7:1) explains that this includes behaving with awe, avoiding frivolity, and maintaining proper decorum in holy spaces.
Q: Why does the verse end with 'I am the Lord'?
A: The declaration 'I am the Lord' emphasizes that these commandments come directly from Hashem (G-d) and are not optional. As the Sforno explains, this reminds us that observing Shabbat and respecting holy places are fundamental expressions of our relationship with G-d and our acceptance of His authority.
Q: How can we apply 'reverence my sanctuary' today without the Temple?
A: Although the Beit HaMikdash is not standing, the Talmud (Megillah 29a) teaches that synagogues and study halls are considered 'mini-sanctuaries.' Therefore, we show reverence by dressing modestly, speaking respectfully, and avoiding distractions during prayer and Torah study, as outlined in Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 151).
Q: What is the connection between Shabbat and the sanctuary in this verse?
A: The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 24:6) connects these two commandments by teaching that observing Shabbat properly brings sanctity into our lives, just as the sanctuary represents holiness in space. Both Shabbat (time) and the sanctuary (space) are gifts from Hashem where we can elevate ourselves spiritually.
Understanding the Verse in Context
The verse "אֶת־שַׁבְּתֹתַי תִּשְׁמֹרוּ וּמִקְדָּשִׁי תִּירָאוּ אֲנִי יְהוָה" (Vayikra 19:30) appears in Parashat Kedoshim, which outlines numerous mitzvot aimed at sanctifying the Jewish people. The juxtaposition of Shabbat observance and reverence for the Mikdash (Sanctuary) underscores their interconnected spiritual significance.
Shabbat Observance (שַׁבְּתֹתַי תִּשְׁמֹרוּ)
Rashi (Vayikra 19:30) explains that the plural form "שַׁבְּתֹתַי" (My Sabbaths) refers not only to Shabbat itself but also to the festivals (Yamim Tovim), as they are sometimes called "Shabbatot" in the Torah (e.g., Vayikra 23:15). The Rambam (Hilchot Shabbat 30:15) emphasizes that Shabbat is a sign of the covenant between Hashem and Bnei Yisrael, a day to affirm belief in Creation and Divine providence.
Reverence for the Mikdash (וּמִקְדָּשִׁי תִּירָאוּ)
The second half of the verse commands reverence for the Sanctuary. Rashi interprets this as a prohibition against entering the Beit HaMikdash or handling sacred objects in a casual manner (e.g., with unkempt clothing or while intoxicated). The Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 7:1-6) elaborates on specific halachot, such as not entering the Temple Mount with a staff or wearing shoes.
The Divine Signature (אֲנִי יְהוָה)
The verse concludes with "אֲנִי יְהוָה", reinforcing that these commandments emanate from Hashem’s authority. The Kli Yakar notes that this phrase appears frequently in Parashat Kedoshim to remind us that holiness is achieved through adherence to mitzvot, which connect us to the Divine.