| 1. “I am HaShem your God”
Vayiqra 19:2 – Qedoshim tihiyu ki qadosh ani HaShem Eloheikhem
The parasha begins by reaffirming the spiritual foundation of the entire Tora: the identity of the people of Israel as a nation consecrated to God. HaShem is the supreme Legislator, whose authority is not based on power or fear, but on holiness. His laws are not arbitrary or oppressive, like Pharaoh’s, but are directed toward the good and dignity of the human being.
2. “You shall have no other gods”
Vayiqra 19:4 – Lo tifnu el ha’elilim
One must not turn to idols or so-called supernatural powers. No kind of “superpower,” magical energy, or spiritual force apart from HaShem may be believed in or invoked. This Mitsva is a statement against superstition, occultism, and any form of idolatry—modern or ancient.
3. “You shall not take the name of HaShem in vain”
Vayiqra 19:12 – Ve’lo tishabe’u bishmi la’sheker
This verse details the improper use of the Divine Name, especially in legal contexts. One may not swear falsely or use the name of HaShem to justify a lie. This Mitsva is a direct continuation of the principle of absolute reverence for the Creator.
4. “Remember the Shabbat to sanctify it”
Vayiqra 19:30 – Et Shabbetotai tishmoru
Qedoshim briefly mentions Shabbat next to respect for parents. The mere mention of it as a Divine command reinforces its centrality in Jewish life. In a later text, BeHar, the Tora is going to extend the Shabbat rest to the land: the Seventh year or Shemita. Observing Shabbat is an act of Emuna and recognition of Divine creation.
5. “Honor your father and your mother”
Vayiqra 19:3 – Ish imo ve’abiv tira’u
Here, the word used is not “honor” but “reverence” or “awe.” Chakhamim explain that honor refers to assisting and caring for one’s parents, especially in old age. Reverence, on the other hand, means for example: not contradicting them, not calling them by name, and not sitting in their designated place. Both attitudes are necessary for a healthy relationship with our parents throughout our life: as children, respecting them, and when our parents need at at an older age, by honoring, taking care of them. .
6. “You shall not murder”
Vayiqra 19:16 – Lo ta’amod al dam re’ekha
Qedoshim takes the prohibition of murder further: forbids indifference when someone’s life is at risk. If someone is in danger and you can help, you are obligated to intervene. Human life is sacred, and failing to act in the face of danger is also a form of violence.
7. “You shall not commit adultery”
Vayiqra 20:10 – Ve’ish asher yinaf et eshet ish
Qedoshim addresses prohibited relationships directly. Adultery is clearly mentioned and its consequences are set forth. Holiness is also expressed in the family and marital sphere. A long text of Achare Mot, the previosu Parasha is dedicated to sexual morality.
8. “You shall not steal”
Vayiqra 19:11 – Lo tignobu
The almost identical word appears here, but in a different context. In Qedoshim, it refers to the theft of material goods—property, money, belongings—while elsewhere it may refer to kidnapping. Additionally, the prohibition is expanded to include all kinds of fraud: lying in business, deceiving customers, withholding wages. The message is clear: a just society is built on economic integrity.
9. “You shall not bear false witness”
Vayiqra 19:16 – Lo telekh rakhil be’amekha
Although it doesn’t mention the courtroom directly, this Mitsva forbids gossip, slander, and defamation. Speaking ill of others, spreading rumors, or creating divisions within the community is also a way of undermining truth and justice—just like false testimony.
10. “You shall not covet”
Vayiqra 19:18 – Lo tikom ve’lo titor
Qedoshim warns against the desire for revenge and holding grudges—emotions related to covetousness. The Tora not only demands control over actions but also over destructive feelings. And it concludes with a revolutionary command: Ve’ahabta lere’akha kamokha – You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Far from envying our peers, the Tora invites us to act with empathy, generosity, and solidarity toward each other . |
