Can You Become Kadosh?

Parshat Acharei Mot – Kedoshim 5772
An underlying theme of Sefer Vayikra / Leviticus is kedusha.

Let’s look at some of the verses that touch on this point (translation from Judaica Press).

In Leviticus Chapter 11 (Parshat Shemini) these verses occur immediately after the Torah teaches which animals may and may not be eaten:

Then in Leviticus Chapter 19 (beginning of Parshat Kedoshim) immediately after the Torah teaches about forbidden sexual relationships we read:

At the end of Leviticus Chapter 20 (end of Parshat Kedoshim) is a summary of the concept of kedusha:

Kedusha Defined

English translations usually render the words kadosh and kedusha as holy or sanctified, depending upon the context.

But, look closely at Leviticus 20:25. It seems clear from that verse that we should also understand the concept of kadosh as being separated or set aside.

For example, when a man and woman become engaged, that act is called kidushin. Before the kidushin, the woman was free to marry any man, but now she is set aside for just that one man.

We begin Shabbat and Yom Tov by reciting kiddush. By this act we signify that these special days are separate and distinct from the ordinary weekdays.

Also we have the Beit Hamikdash, the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. This is the one place on Earth that is most especially set aside for worshiping God.

My Questions

1. In the verses quoted above, the kedusha of the Jewish people was linked to the fact that God is kadosh. What are we supposed to learn from the fact of God being kadosh?

2. Can any one become kadosh?

3. Does a person become kadosh based on doing certain acts or by refraining from certain acts?

4. For a person who wants to increase their level of kedusha, what’s the best way to proceed?

Your Turn

Please share your questions and suggested answers in the comments.

Also, if you would take a minute and share this post with your friends on Facebook. I would really appreciate it.

Picture credit Flickr.