Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'keep my statutes and do them' mean in Leviticus 20:8?
A: The verse teaches that we must both study and observe the mitzvot (commandments). Rashi explains that 'keeping' refers to learning and understanding the laws, while 'doing them' means putting them into action. This dual obligation ensures that Torah knowledge leads to practical observance.
Q: Why does the verse say 'I am the Lord who sanctifies you'?
A: Hashem is reminding us that by observing His commandments, we become sanctified (made holy). The Rambam teaches that performing mitzvot elevates us spiritually and connects us to Hashem. Our holiness comes from faithfully following His laws, not from our own efforts alone.
Q: How does this verse apply to daily Jewish life?
A: This verse is the foundation of halachic (Jewish law) observance. The Talmud (Makkot 23b) derives from here that every mitzvah we perform makes us more holy. Practically, it reminds us that both Torah study and mitzvah observance are essential parts of serving Hashem properly.
Q: What's the difference between 'statutes' (chukim) and other commandments?
A: Rashi explains that 'chukim' often refer to mitzvot whose reasons aren't obvious (like kashrut or sha'atnez). The verse teaches we must observe even these laws faithfully. The Midrash (Sifra) notes that precisely by keeping these 'statutes' without questioning, we show our complete devotion to Hashem.
Q: Why is this verse important in the Torah?
A: This verse encapsulates a key Torah principle - that mitzvah observance leads to kedusha (holiness). The Sforno explains that through keeping Hashem's laws, we become worthy of Divine sanctification. It appears in Leviticus, the book dealing with holiness, showing how to achieve spiritual elevation through Torah observance.
Understanding the Verse
The verse "וּשְׁמַרְתֶּם אֶת־חֻקֹּתַי וַעֲשִׂיתֶם אֹתָם אֲנִי יְהוָה מְקַדִּשְׁכֶם" (Vayikra 20:8) emphasizes the dual obligation to guard (שְׁמִירָה) and perform (עֲשִׂיָּה) Hashem's statutes, with the concluding affirmation that He sanctifies us.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that "וּשְׁמַרְתֶּם" refers to studying and internalizing the mitzvot to ensure their proper performance, while "וַעֲשִׂיתֶם" is the actual fulfillment. This aligns with the Talmudic principle (Kiddushin 40b) that study leads to action. The phrase "אֲנִי יְהוָה מְקַדִּשְׁכֶם" teaches that sanctification comes through adherence to mitzvot, as Hashem designates us as holy when we follow His will.
Rambam's Perspective
In Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 1:1), Rambam highlights that the foundation of holiness is recognizing Hashem as the source of all sanctity. By observing חֻקִּים (statutes)—even those beyond human comprehension—we affirm our devotion to His wisdom, thereby meriting sanctification.
Midrashic Insight
The Sifra (Kedoshim 10:1) links this verse to the broader theme of kedushah (holiness), stating that mitzvot elevate us above mundane existence. The חֻקִּים in particular—such as kashrut or taharat hamishpacha—are instruments through which Hashem imbues us with sanctity, as they require unwavering faith in His commandments.
Key Themes