Make the Right Choice

"The pursuit of holiness requires us to be mindful of our actions and decisions."

Parashat Re’eh, which is a portion from the book of Devarim (Deuteronomy), contains a wealth of wisdom and guidance for leading a righteous and holy life. One of the central themes in this portion is the pursuit of holiness. In Hebrew, the word for holiness is “kedusha,” which implies being set apart or dedicated to a higher purpose. Let us delve into this concept of holiness and explore its relevance in our lives today.

In Devarim (Deuteronomy) 11:26-28, we find the foundation for holiness: “See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse: the blessing if you obey the commandments of the Lord your G-d, which I command you today, and the curse if you do not obey the commandments of the Lord your G-d.” This passage reminds us that holiness is not merely a state of being; rather, it is the result of our actions and choices. When we follow HaShem’s commandments, we align ourselves with His will and invite His blessings into our lives.

The pursuit of holiness requires us to be mindful of our actions and decisions. In Devarim (Deuteronomy) 11:29, Moshe instructs the people: “And when the Lord your G-d brings you into the land that you are entering to take possession of it, you shall set the blessing on Mount Gerizim and the curse on Mount Ebal.” This verse teaches us that holiness is not an abstract concept; it is meant to manifest in our everyday lives. We are called to actively choose the path of righteousness and obedience to Hashem’s commandments.

Furthermore, Parashat Re’eh emphasizes the importance of discernment in our search for holiness. In Devarim (Deuteronomy) 12:29-31, Moshe warns the Israelites about the dangers of adopting the idolatrous practices of the nations around them. He urges them not to be ensnared by the allure of foreign gods and false worship. This serves as a reminder that holiness requires us to be discerning in our associations and to guard against the influences that may lead us astray from the path of righteousness.

In our modern context, pursuing holiness remains just as pertinent. While we may not face the temptation of idol worship in the same way as the ancient Israelites, we encounter numerous distractions and competing values in our daily lives. We are constantly bombarded by messages that promote materialism, selfishness, and instant gratification. Yet, the call to holiness challenges us to rise above these influences and seek a higher purpose.

Holiness is not an isolated endeavor; it is meant to permeate every aspect of our lives. It should shape our relationships, our work, our interactions with others, and our treatment of the world around us. When we strive for holiness, we cultivate compassion, integrity, and a sense of responsibility toward ourselves and others.

As we reflect on Parashat Re’eh and its teachings on holiness, let us remember that it is not a destination but a lifelong journey. It requires constant self-reflection, spiritual growth, and a genuine desire to be in harmony with HaShem’s will. By embracing holiness, we can experience the blessings and fulfillment that come from living a life dedicated to a higher purpose. May we always seek to set ourselves apart for holy service and be a source of light in the world.