Kedoshim (parsha)
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Kedoshim (קְדֹשִׁים)
Leviticus 19:1 – 20:27
| Book | Leviticus |
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| Parasha # | 30 of 54 |
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| Torah portion | Leviticus 19:1 – 20:27 |
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| Haftarah (Ashkenazi) | Amos 9:7–15 |
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| Preceded by | Acharei Mot |
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| Followed by | Emor |
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| Key figures | Moses, Israel |
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Kedoshim (Hebrew: קְדֹשִׁים, "Holy ones") is the seventh Torah portion of Leviticus, covering Leviticus 19:1–20:27. It contains the "Holiness Code" — a collection of ethical, ritual, and social laws, including "Love your neighbor as yourself."
The Holiness Code
God says to Moses: "Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy" (Leviticus 19:2). The parasha contains the famous verse: "You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself (וְאָהַבְתָּ לְרֵעֲךָ כָּמוֹךָ): I am the Lord" (Leviticus 19:18). Rabbi Akiva called this "the great principle of the Torah."
Ethical Laws
The parasha includes: reverence for parents and keeping the Sabbath (19:3); prohibition of idolatry (19:4); peace offerings eaten within two days (19:5–8); leaving gleanings for the poor (19:9–10); no stealing, lying, or swearing falsely (19:11); no defrauding or robbing (19:13); no cursing the deaf or putting a stumbling block before the blind (19:14); just judgment (19:15); no talebearing (19:16); no hatred in the heart (19:17); no mixing of kinds (19:19); laws of fruit trees (19:23–25); no divination or soothsaying (19:26); no cutting the flesh or tattooing (19:28); reverence for the elderly (19:32); love of the stranger (19:33–34); honest weights and measures (19:35–36).
Penalties for Transgressions
Leviticus 20 prescribes penalties for: giving children to Molech (death by stoning); consulting mediums (cut off); cursing parents (death); adultery (death); incest (death/cut off); bestiality (death); and the importance of keeping God's statutes to avoid being vomited out of the land.
Major themes
- Holiness: The call to be holy as God is holy.
- Love of neighbor: The foundational ethical principle.
- Social justice: Care for the poor, the stranger, the elderly.
- Separation: Distinctiveness of Israel through laws and practices.
- Consequences: The penalties for violating the covenant.
Rashi
Rashi explains that "You shall be holy" means separating from sexual immorality and idolatry. On "love your neighbor," Rashi says: "What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow."
Ramban
Ramban explains that holiness means going beyond the letter of the law — "sanctify yourself with what is permitted to you" (Kedoshim tihyu). He also explains the verse "You shall be holy" as the overarching principle of the Torah.
Midrashic interpretations
- Vayikra Rabbah 24:1: "You shall be holy" — the Torah was given to make you holy.
- Vayikra Rabbah 24:5: Rabbi Akiva said: "Love your neighbor as yourself" is the great principle of the Torah.
- Tanhuma, Kedoshim 1: The commandments are interwoven, teaching that one cannot pick and choose.
Haftarah
The haftarah (Amos 9:7–15) speaks of God's judgment on Israel and the promise of restoration: "I will bring again the captivity of My people of Israel, and they shall build the waste cities, and inhabit them" (Amos 9:14). It connects to the theme of holiness and covenant.
References
- Leviticus 19:1 – 20:27 (Masoretic Text)
- Rashi, Commentary on the Torah
- Ramban, Commentary on the Torah
- Vayikra Rabbah (Midrash)
- Tanhuma, Kedoshim
- The JPS Torah Commentary: Leviticus (Baruch A. Levine, 1989)
- Etz Hayim: Torah and Commentary (JPS, 2001)
- Sefaria.org, "Kedoshim" (parasha)
Additional Commentary and Discussion
Scholars and rabbis have long debated the nuances of this text. The medieval commentators Rashi, Ramban, Ibn Ezra, and Sforno each offer distinct perspectives, ranging from grammatical analysis to theological reflection. Modern academic scholarship adds historical and literary context, comparing the text with ancient Near Eastern parallels.
In contemporary study, this material is explored through the lenses of halakha, aggadah, and Jewish thought. Synagogues and study groups worldwide engage with these texts weekly, finding new relevance in ancient words. The enduring vitality of this parasha lies in its ability to speak to every generation.
For a full Hebrew text and parallel translations, consult Sefaria.org. The JPS Torah Commentary series provides scholarly annotation. Contributions to expand this article are welcome.
Study Questions
- What are the central themes of this passage?
- How do the classical commentators differ in their interpretation?
- What practical lessons can be drawn for contemporary life?
- How does this connect to the broader narrative of the Torah?
These questions are designed to guide individual study and group discussion. Teachers and students are encouraged to add their own.
Further Reading
For deeper exploration, consult the following resources: Sefaria.org for the full Hebrew and English text; the JPS Torah Commentary series for scholarly annotation; Etz Hayim for a Conservative movement perspective; and the ArtScroll Stone Chumash for an Orthodox perspective. The Talmud and Midrash provide extensive rabbinic discussion.
Community study groups (shiurim) and online courses offer additional opportunities to engage with this material. Contributions to expand and improve this article are welcome.
Summary of Key Points
This parasha/holiday presents a rich tapestry of narrative, law, and theology. Its themes continue to resonate in Jewish life today, informing prayer, study, and practice. The text rewards careful reading and sustained engagement.
Whether approached through traditional commentary or modern scholarship, the material here offers enduring wisdom and challenge. Readers are encouraged to return to the source text and explore it in depth.