Be Holy!

Let us strive to be a beacon of light and righteousness in a world often clouded by darkness and confusion.

Dear friends,

The Torah at the beginning of Parshat Kedoshim instructs us to ‘be holy’ (Vayikra 19:2). This vague commandment has been the subject of much debate. How exactly do you define holy? Is this referring to any specific commandments?

Indeed, some of the Rishonim say it isn’t a commandment in and of itself; it’s merely an introduction to the moral mitzvot that will be discussed right afterward.

However, the Ramban (and others) explain that this is a profound instruction to all Jews to be better. He gives the example that while the Torah allows us to drink wine, this Mitzvah commands us to drink only in moderation. This essentially means that while in secular law, it isn’t illegal to be an alcoholic, according to Torah law, it is. And this can be extrapolated to any immoral or excessive actions which may technically be permitted, but this commandment tells us no, be better! 

This message has become ever more apparent recently as the so-called ‘intellectuals’ and some leaders have accused Israel and the IDF of heinous crimes against humanity.

We all know that the opposite is true; our holy brothers who are defending our country are the most moral, held to a standard far above any other army in history, adhering to the Torah’s instruction to ‘Be Holy!’ - be better! 

In the face of adversity, let us never forget what we truly stand for. Don’t let anyone or the ignorant opinions make us question our people or our mission. Instead, together, let us strive to be a beacon of light and righteousness in a world often clouded by darkness and confusion.

Sholom S. Mimran