A Holy Nation

The theme of פרשת יתרו is קדושה, holiness. The Netivot Shalom points out that although the words, קדושים תהיו, be holy, is mentioned in the Torah, it is not listed as one of the 613 Mitzvot. It is an overall goal that the observance of the Mitzvot is designed to achieve. The Jewish people are told that they are meant to become a ממלכת כהנים וגוי קדוש, a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. The idea of Kedusha defines us as Jews. The Midrash says that Hashem tells us that כשאתם קדושים אתם שלי, when you are holy, you are Mine. We are also taught, קדש עצמך במותר לך, that we achieve holiness by partaking of what is permitted to us. All of this was meant to be the preliminary to the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai. Only Jews are able to achieve this level of sanctity. Non-Jews can achieve righteousness by their actions. Jews reach this goal through the observance of the Mitzvot. This is our mission and the purpose in receiving the Torah. Be holy!