Torah Portion 30 - Kedoshim (Holy) קְדשִׁים.
Portion Summary
In this thirtieth reading from the Torah and seventh reading from Leviticus is named Kedoshim, meaning "holy." The title is derived from (Leviticus 19:2), which states, "You will be holy, for I YHVH am holy." This portion outlines a holy community through specific commandments on righteous living, integrity, and relationships with others.
(Leviticus 20) includes warnings against sexual immorality and idolatry, with a strict mandate on the consequences for certain sins. In non-leap years, Kedoshim is read together with the preceding portion, Acharei Mot.
TORAH:
Leviticus 19:1-20:27 - Commandments for holiness, detailing ethical and moral guidelines for individuals and communities.
Exodus 19:4-6 - Israel as a chosen, holy nation.
Deuteronomy 7:6-9 - Israel's unique position and YHVH's covenant with them.
WRITINGS:
Psalms 1:1-3 - The blessings of righteous living.
Ruth 2:14 - The kindness and provision shown by Boaz, reflecting holiness in action.
Proverbs 19:17 - Charity as a loan to YHVH, who rewards kindness to the poor.
1 Samuel 16:6-7 - YHVH's perspective on true character, beyond outward appearance.
Proverbs 6:16-19 - Sins detestable to YHVH, emphasizing personal integrity.
Proverbs 9:8-10 - The wisdom of rebuke and the value of the fear of YHVH.
2 Samuel 10:1-5 - Compassion and respect, honoring others' intentions.
Psalms 119:9 - Keeping one's way pure by living according to YHVH's word.
TARGUMS:
Leviticus 19:16 - Emphasizing ethical speech and avoiding harmful gossip.
Leviticus 19:20 - Addressing justice and fairness in human relationships.
SEPTUAGINT:
Leviticus 19:19 - Laws against mixing species, symbolizing separation and holiness.
NEVI'EM:
Amos 9:7-15 - YHVH's promise of restoration and His care for the nations.
Isaiah 35:8-10 - The highway of holiness, a path for the redeemed.
Malachi 1:12 - A call to honor YHVH in worship.
Isaiah 11:1-5 - Prophecy of the Messiah's righteous reign, embodying holiness and justice.
GOSPELS AND EPISTLES:
Mark 12:28-34 - Y'shua's teaching on the greatest commandments, emphasizing love for YHVH and one's neighbor.
APOCRYPHA:
Wisdom of Solomon 1:1-15 - Encouragement toward righteousness, warning against ungodliness.
Sirach 2:1-11 - Endurance in righteousness and trust in YHVH's mercy.
Sirach 19:19 - Understanding the knowledge of the commandments as a source of life.
Tobit 4:5-6 - Walking in truth, righteousness, and showing compassion to others.
Key Themes in Kedoshim:
Holiness in Community
Instructions in (Leviticus 19) emphasize community living, focusing on respect for parents, kindness to neighbors, justice, and reverence for YHVH. Holiness involves ethical behavior and is a community-wide standard.
Moral Purity and Boundaries
(Leviticus 20) delineates boundaries for purity, focusing on prohibitions against sexual immorality and idolatry. These guidelines underscore the need for holiness in both public and private life.
Justice and Mercy
Kedoshim reinforces the balance between justice and mercy, reminding Israel of the necessity for fair treatment, kindness, and integrity toward others.
Love for Neighbor
The command to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Leviticus 19:18) is foundational, guiding interpersonal relationships and emphasizing compassion and empathy.
Reflection of the Divine
YHVH calls Israel to holiness, reflecting His character. This theme resonates through the prophets and New Testament, highlighting that believers are set apart to live as a reflection of YHVH's righteousness and compassion.
Study Questions:
How does this Torah portion connect with the Haftarah and New Testament readings?
What were the most compelling aspects of the readings for you, and why?
How does Kedoshim reveal characteristics of Y'shua, especially in the commandments to love and act justly?
What is the overarching theme of this portion, and how can it be applied to modern life?
This overview of Kedoshim provides an in-depth look at the principles of holiness, love, and community responsibility. The call to live a life of holiness remains a foundational value for those seeking to reflect YHVH's character in all areas of life.
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