Kedoshim

“Living a Truly Sanctified Life”
(updated and revised from Kedoshim 5765-2005)

The revolutionary concept of living a sanctified life might seem daunting, but in reality, it is a goal to be aspired to by every Jew. The exalted concept of being G-d-like is not out of the realm of human possibility.

“Giving Proper Reproof”
(updated and revised from Kedoshim 5763-2003)

Judaism maintains that if one has a justified complaint against another it is preferable to state it directly rather than to brood over it. However, giving proper reproof is an art, in and of itself. The great Chazon Ish declared that since we no longer know how to give proper reproof, it is preferable not to offer reproof.

“The Revolutionary Idea of ‘Holiness’”
(Revised and updated from Kedoshim 5760-2000)

In parashat Kedoshim, we learn much about the revolutionary idea that the Torah introduced into civilization–-the concept of kedusha--“holiness.” As the Torah boldly declares, “You shall be holy, for I, the L-rd your G-d am holy.” Unless one subscribes to the belief that every human is holy and a reflection of the Divine, there is really no limit to the extent of depravity and immorality to which humans may sink.

“Tattoos"

Parashat Kedoshim includes the prohibition of making cuts on one’s skin as a sign of mourning and forbids the drawing of permanent tattoos on the body.

“The Prohibition of Taking Revenge”

While it may be part of human nature to seek revenge, the Torah forbids acting on the desire for revenge, or to even bear a grudge.

“Judaism’s Radical Notion of Holiness”

In the closing verses of this week’s parasha, G-d calls out to His people: “And you shall be holy to Me because I, your L-rd, am holy.” This is the ultimate human challenge--and the ultimate human calling.

"Establishing a Truly Ethical Society: Honesty in Business"

In parashat Kedoshim, the Torah exhorts the Jewish merchant to be honest in his weights and measures. This fundamental principle sets the tone for the extraordinary and revolutionary regulations that govern the conduct of Jewish businessmen, and serve as the guiding principles for a truly ethical and moral community.

"Living a Sanctified Life"

The revolutionary concept of living a sanctified life might seem daunting, but in reality it is a goal to be aspired to by every Jew. The exalted concept of being G-d-like is not out of the realm of human possibility.

"Giving Proper Reproof"

Judaism maintains that if one has a justified complaint against another it is preferable to state it directly than to brood over it. However, giving proper reproof is an art in and of itself. The great Chazon Ish (Rabbi Abraham Isiah Karelitz, 1878-1953) declared that since we no longer know how to give proper reproof, it is preferable not to offer reproof.

"The Revolutionary Idea of Holiness"

In parashat Kedoshim we learn much about the magical and revolutionary idea that the Torah introduced into civilization-- the concept of "holiness." As the Torah says, "You shall be holy for I the L-rd your G-d am holy." Unless one subscribes to the belief that every human is holy and a reflection of the Divine, there is really no limit to the extent of depravity and immorality to which humans may sink.