Leviticus 19 - 21

I Am The Lord Your God
In the Torah cycle this portion is know as K'doshim-"Holy People" because of chapter 19, verse 2, "[...] You must be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy."  God wanted a holy people to reflect His holiness.  Chapter 19 is interesting in the structural sense because of the staccato repetition of "I am the Lord your God" in verses 3, 4, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 25, 28, 30, 31, 34, 36, and 37. This phrase acts to emphasize the previous instruction.  While there are similarities to the Ten Commandments, the chapter's recitation of commonly accepted truth and it's broader scope allow it to stand on its on merits.

Most of the instructions are in a negative format, "Do not put your trust in idols," "Do not steal," "Do not twist justice."  But some are stated positively - the ones that deal with respect for others, and respect for God.  Verses 3, 5, 30, 32, and 37 are all positive.  Verse 18 is particularly indicative of the ethic God is instilling in His people, "Love your neighbor as yourself."

If a people are expected to be holy, then they must understand what holiness is as defined by the Law.  While it is apparent that even the most ardent worshiper would find it impossible to keep every aspect of the Law, the Lord, in His grace, provides a sacrificial way to atone for mistakes and sins.

May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.