Sanctifying Hashem's Name/2
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Sanctification of Hashem's Name
Exegetical Approaches
Result of Observance
Vayikra 22:31 declares that observance of Hashem's commandments will lead to a sanctification of Hashem's name, but does not constitute an obligation perform a specific action.
Passive form of "וְנִקְדַּשְׁתִּי" – The passive form of the word "וְנִקְדַּשְׁתִּי" supports this position, suggesting that the sanctification is a consequence rather than a command.
Context
To whom are these words directed?
- Priests – Ibn Ezra and Abarbanel claim that the words are aimed at the priests. If they keep the laws immediately preceding this passage (not slaughtering a mother and son together and properly offering thanksgiving sacrifices), then Hashem's name will be sanctified.
- Nation – Seforno, in contrast, asserts that the verse is directed at the Children of Israel as a whole. If they do not profane Hashem's name through improper or debased conduct, then Hashem will perform miracles for them and sanctify Himself inthier midst.
Positive Behavior
The phrase "וְנִקְדַּשְׁתִּי בְּתוֹךְ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל" obligates people to behave in a manner which will sanctify God's name.
Martyrdom
"וְנִקְדַּשְׁתִּי בְּתוֹךְ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל" is the positive commandment to forfeit one's life rather than transgress commandments in public.
Sources:Sifra Vayikra, Yerushalmi Sanhedrin, Bavli Sanhedrin, Bavli Avodah Zarah, Rashi, Rambam, Ramban, Ralbag,
