Kedoshim

Hello,

This week's portion is Kedoshim.

Kedoshim begins with various laws subsumed under the heading of "laws of holiness."

Nachmanides explains that this ‘holiness’ refers to transcending the letter of the law and imbuing day-to-day decisions with spirituality.
Seforno, on the other hand, identifies 'holiness' with 'being Gd-like,' imitating the acts of HaShem described in the Torah and drawing closer to HaShem in general.

In this context, we are given a series of financial laws mandating meticulous honesty in our transactions, respect and love for others, and generosity toward those in need. We are taught to love even the stranger who has come to us from the outside, and to take care not to harm him.

The latter part of the portion reiterates a constant biblical message, warning the Jews not to imitate the Egyptians and Canaanites. Various activities associated with idol worship and sexual immorality are forbidden, as the Jews are supposed to develop a lifestyle which will reflect the Torah and its values.

Have a great day,
Mordechai