Kedoshim / ‘Holiness’ isn’t ‘spirituality

Parshat Kedoshim begins with the charge to the children of Israel to be kedoshim, G-d is, He explains, Himself kadosh.

The words kedoshim and kadosh have several possible meanings. The midrash focuses on the concept of separation (Rashi jumps on these coattails) — from immorality, from idolatry. Ramban focuses on the concept of separation, leading us to understand that the word kodesh is meant to be demanding a higher ethic of the children of Israel.

Many will look at the words and associate the concepts of sanctification and holiness with kedusha.

No matter what the words mean, perhaps what follows the opening instruction is most informative in our understanding of what it means to achieve kedusha — separation, holiness, sanctification, etc.

What may come as a surprise to some of our Jewish brethren is that the concept of holiness (if indeed this is an accurate translation) has nothing to do with “spirituality.” The mitzvot of this parsha are very mundane or matter-of-fact. No tingly feelings. No musical enhancement. Only good old-fashioned observance of the law.

Chapter 19: Revere parents, observe the Shabbos (Shabbos is mentioned twice in this chapter!). Don’t worship idols or create graven images. A sacrificial offering is to be eaten within a limited amount of time. Leave behind portions of your field for the poor and indigent. Don’t steal, deny claims or lie. Don’t swear falsely using G-d’s name. Pay your workers on time. Don’t curse the deaf or lead the blind to stumble. Be just in courts — no preferences for the poor or the rich.

Don’t gossip or stand idly by when your neighbor is in peril. Don’t bear hatred in your heart — admonish a neighbor (who will listen). Don’t take revenge, nor bear a grudge. Love your neighbor as you love yourself. No crossbreeding of livestock, species of seeds, or of wool and linen.

The list goes on and includes reminders about how to cut facial hair, not to make gashes and tattoos in the skin, and to avoid seeking advice from oracles or mediums. Respect those who are older as well as the strangers among you (such as converts or those of the nations who have decided to live under your laws). Do not cheat in business with inaccurate weights and measures.