Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean to 'sanctify yourselves and be holy' in Leviticus 20:7?
A: According to Rashi and traditional Jewish interpretation, 'sanctify yourselves' refers to separating from sinful behaviors and dedicating oneself to fulfilling mitzvot (commandments). 'Be holy' means going beyond the basic requirements of the law by exercising self-restraint and elevating one's actions (Rambam, Hilchot De'ot 1:5).
Q: Why does the verse say 'for I am the Lord your God' at the end?
A: The Torah emphasizes that our sanctification is connected to Hashem's holiness. Since God is holy, we must strive to emulate His ways (Sifra, Kedoshim). This teaches that our spiritual growth is not just for personal improvement, but to reflect our relationship with the Divine.
Q: How can we apply 'be holy' in daily life today?
A: The Talmud (Yevamot 20a) explains this includes avoiding excess even in permitted matters (like food, speech, or business). For example, one should eat kosher food, but also practice moderation. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot) teaches this means developing balanced, ethical character traits in all areas of life.
Q: What's the difference between 'sanctify yourselves' and 'be holy' in this verse?
A: Rashi explains that 'sanctify yourselves' refers to separating from forbidden relationships (the context of this chapter), while 'be holy' is a broader command to avoid all sinful behaviors. The Kli Yakar adds that sanctification is the first step (avoiding bad), while holiness is the higher level (actively pursuing good).
Q: Is this commandment only for priests or for all Jews?
A: This commandment applies to all Jewish people. The Sifra states that just as God is holy, every Jew must strive for holiness. While kohanim (priests) have additional sanctity requirements, this verse (like the entire 'Kedoshim' section) addresses the entire nation (Vayikra Rabbah 24:4).
Sanctification and Holiness in the Verse
The verse "וְהִתְקַדִּשְׁתֶּם וִהְיִיתֶם קְדֹשִׁים כִּי אֲנִי יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם" ("Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be holy: for I am the Lord your God") appears in Vayikra (Leviticus) 20:7 and emphasizes the obligation of the Jewish people to strive for sanctification (kedushah) in their lives. Rashi explains that this sanctification is achieved through distancing oneself from sin and impurity, particularly in matters of forbidden relationships, which are discussed in the surrounding verses.
Rashi's Interpretation
Rashi (Vayikra 20:7) connects this verse to the previous context, which discusses forbidden relationships, and states that sanctification here refers to separating oneself from immorality. He further explains that wherever there is a barrier against sin, there is holiness. Thus, the call to "sanctify yourselves" is a directive to exercise self-control and adhere to the Torah's moral boundaries.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides) in Hilchos De'os (Laws of Ethical Conduct) expands on this idea, teaching that holiness is not merely abstaining from sin but actively cultivating positive traits. He writes that one should sanctify themselves even in permitted matters by not indulging excessively, as holiness requires moderation and spiritual refinement.
The Midrashic View
The Sifra (a halachic Midrash on Vayikra) interprets the phrase "be holy" as a command to sanctify oneself through the performance of mitzvos. It teaches that just as Hashem is holy, so too must Bnei Yisrael emulate His ways by living a life of mitzvah observance and ethical conduct.
Practical Applications from the Talmud
The Foundation: "For I am Hashem Your God"
The concluding phrase "כִּי אֲנִי יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם" ("for I am the Lord your God") serves as the basis for this commandment. The Kli Yakar explains that since Hashem is holy, His people must strive to emulate His sanctity. This reflects the principle of Imitatio Dei (emulating Divine attributes), as taught in Vayikra 19:2 ("You shall be holy, for I, Hashem your God, am holy").