Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'All the days of his separation he is holy to the Lord' mean?
A: This verse refers to a Nazirite (someone who takes a special vow of dedication to Hashem). During the entire period of their vow, they are considered holy and must follow specific restrictions, such as avoiding wine, not cutting their hair, and staying away from impurity (Rashi on Numbers 6:8).
Q: Why is the Nazirite vow important in Judaism?
A: The Nazirite vow is a voluntary way for a person to elevate themselves spiritually by dedicating time to Hashem. The Talmud (Nedarim 10a) discusses its significance as a form of self-discipline and devotion, showing how one can temporarily adopt a higher level of holiness.
Q: What can we learn from the Nazirite's holiness?
A: The verse teaches that holiness is not just about avoiding sin but actively dedicating oneself to Hashem. The Rambam (Hilchot Nezirut) explains that the Nazirite serves as an example of how one can strengthen their spiritual commitment through personal sacrifice and discipline.
Q: Does the concept of a Nazirite apply today?
A: While the full laws of the Nazirite vow are not commonly practiced today, the principle of setting aside time for spiritual growth remains relevant. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 10:10) highlights that anyone can adopt aspects of dedication, such as avoiding excess and focusing on Torah study.
Q: What restrictions did a Nazirite have during their vow?
A: A Nazirite could not drink wine, cut their hair, or come into contact with the dead (Numbers 6:3-7). Rashi explains that these restrictions helped the Nazirite maintain their state of holiness and avoid distractions from their spiritual focus.
Context of the Verse
The verse "כֹּל יְמֵי נִזְרוֹ קָדֹשׁ הוּא לַיהוָה" (Bamidbar 6:8) appears in the context of the laws of the Nazirite (Nazir), an individual who takes a vow of abstinence for a set period to achieve a higher level of sanctity. The Nazirite abstains from wine, haircuts, and contact with the dead, dedicating themselves wholly to Hashem.
Explanation of the Verse
The phrase "קָדֹשׁ הוּא לַיהוָה" ("he is holy to the Lord") emphasizes that the Nazirite's sanctity is not merely a personal status but a divine designation. Rashi (Bamidbar 6:5) explains that the holiness of the Nazirite is comparable to that of the Kohen Gadol (High Priest), who is also forbidden to become impure through contact with the dead. This comparison highlights the elevated spiritual state of the Nazirite during their vow.
Duration of Sanctity
The term "כֹּל יְמֵי נִזְרוֹ" ("all the days of his separation") teaches that the holiness of the Nazirite is continuous and unbroken throughout the duration of the vow. The Rambam (Hilchot Nezirut 10:14) notes that even if the Nazirite accidentally becomes impure, their original intent to achieve holiness remains valid, and they must restart their vow after purification.
Spiritual Implications
Practical Halachic Considerations
The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 203) rules that a Nazirite must be meticulous in observing their vow, as any violation undermines their sanctity. The verse thus serves as a reminder that holiness requires consistent adherence to the terms of one's spiritual commitment.