A Higher Standard (Parashat Kedoshim)

While studying in Beis Medrash, I remember one of my Rebbeim introducing a new concept in halacha.  When I questioned him on the source for the halacha so that I could tell it over to others, he referenced the pasuk in this week's parasha "You shall be holy, for holy am I, Hashem, your G-d", stating that one of his Rebbeim used to say that pasuk was the source behind every halacha.  While I, respectfully, disagree with that method of answering; I strongly agree with the concept overall.

In this weeks parasha, Hashem instructs Moshe to "speak to the entire assembly of the Children of Israel" (leave nobody behind) and give over this commandment of holiness to them.  It is, perhaps, one of the most profound commandments we have in the entire Torah.  Every Jew has an obligation to be holy - just as Hashem is.  We must understand that, if we are to truly assume our role as Hashem's children and emulate His greatness, we must be like Him - we must be holy.

I have had numerous conversations with students over the years as to why Hashem had to "burden" us with so many commandments.  I explain to them that the purpose of these commandments is to help us grow closer to Him.  Hashem created us so that he can be our Father and we can be His children.  In order to establish a loving relationship between the two, we must have some form of similarity.  After all, the way people bond is over their similarities - it is what we have in common with others that draws us to them.  All of Hashem's characteristics add up to one overall trait - holiness.  Therefore, he provides us we halachot that will enable us to achieve this trait as well.  In fact, if you look at any halacha that exists, you will find an underlying purpose that enables one to become a better person (i.e. - covering the challah on shabbat teaches to be considerate of the feelings of others).

In one of his shiurim, Rabbi Dovid Orlofsky suggests that people not strive to be frum or religious.  Rather, he suggests, strive to be holy.  For if a person strives to be holy, he will - ultimately- be much more than frum.  Additionally, this week's parasha does not command us to be the former, it commands us to be the latter.

May we all strive to be holy and, in doing so, may we grow closer to Hashem, our Father.  In doing so, may we be zoche to see the coming of Mashiach speedily in our days!

Shabbat Shalom!!