Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'And you shall keep my commandments, and do them: I am the Lord' mean?
A: This verse emphasizes the importance of not only studying and understanding G-d's commandments (mitzvot) but also actively performing them. Rashi explains that 'keeping' the commandments refers to learning them thoroughly, while 'doing them' means putting them into practice. The phrase 'I am the Lord' reminds us that these commandments come from the Almighty, giving them divine authority.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse is fundamental because it connects belief in G-d with action. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches that true service of G-d requires both knowledge of Torah and observance of mitzvot. The Talmud (Kiddushin 40b) states that study is greater because it leads to action, showing how both elements are essential in Jewish life.
Q: What can we learn from this verse about how to live as Jews today?
A: We learn that Judaism requires active engagement with mitzvot, not just theoretical knowledge. The Midrash (Sifra) explains that this verse teaches us to be meticulous in both learning and performing commandments. In practical terms, this means we should study Torah regularly and be careful to observe halacha (Jewish law) in our daily lives - from keeping Shabbat and kosher to acts of kindness between people.
Q: Why does the verse end with 'I am the Lord'?
A: The concluding words 'I am the Lord' serve as a powerful reminder that these commandments come from the Creator. Rashi explains that this phrase appears frequently in Torah to emphasize that G-d has the authority to command us and will reward those who follow His laws. The Talmud (Makkot 23b-24a) notes that this declaration reinforces our acceptance of G-d's sovereignty.
Q: How does this verse relate to the concept of mitzvot between people and mitzvot between man and G-d?
A: While this verse speaks generally about all commandments, Jewish tradition (based on sources like Rambam's Mishneh Torah) divides mitzvot into those between people (bein adam l'chavero) and those between man and G-d (bein adam lamakom). This verse teaches that both categories are equally important as divine commandments. The Talmud (Yoma 86a) explains that proper observance of mitzvot sanctifies G-d's name in the world.
Explanation of the Verse
The verse "וּשְׁמַרְתֶּם מִצְוֺתַי וַעֲשִׂיתֶם אֹתָם אֲנִי יְהוָה" (Vayikra 22:31) emphasizes the dual obligation of both safeguarding and actively performing the mitzvot. This directive appears multiple times in the Torah, reinforcing its centrality in Jewish life.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that "וּשְׁמַרְתֶּם" (and you shall keep) refers to studying the mitzvot diligently to ensure they are not forgotten, while "וַעֲשִׂיתֶם" (and you shall do) refers to their actual performance. This aligns with the Talmudic principle (Kiddushin 40b) that study leads to action.
Rambam's Perspective
In Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Talmud Torah 1:3), the Rambam teaches that Torah study is a prerequisite for proper mitzvah observance. The verse thus underscores that knowledge and action are inseparable in fulfilling the divine will.
Midrashic Insight
The Midrash (Sifra, Kedoshim 1) connects this verse to the concept of Kiddush Hashem (sanctifying G-d's name). By observing mitzvot faithfully, Jews publicly affirm their allegiance to Hashem, fulfilling the declaration "אֲנִי יְהוָה" (I am the Lord).
Key Lessons