You Shall Be Holy

You shall be holy (Lev. 19:2)

The commandment to be holy includes sanctifying oneself even within the confines of Torah law. (Ramban)

You shall be holy, for I am holy (Lev. 19:2)

"Holy, but not removed from the world," comments the Ktav Sofer. Man is enjoined to imitate G-d, the source of all holiness, Who actively involves Himself in all aspects of His creation. G-d wants us to live a holy life within the physical world, not to be ascetic. A saying exists that a wealthy man's son never has to worry about making a living. Likewise, G-d reassures His children, the Jewish people, that holiness and sanctity are well within their grasp. "For I am holy"-"I have enough holiness to go around for everyone." (The Rebbe of Alexander)