Emor: Harmonizing Heart and Hand

By Josh Appel

Many of us are familiar with the concept of קידוש ה׳ – the sanctifying of God’s name – and know that it appears in this week’s Parsha. However, a closer examination reveals a surprising placement of this commandment. At the end of פרק כ״ב we are instructed about the proper intentions a Kohen must have when bringing a Korban. Specifically, a Kohen must not bring a sacrifice with the intention of consuming it the following day (נותר). Following this instruction, the Torah abruptly states: “You shall faithfully observe My commandments, I am Hashem. You shall not profane My holy name, that I may be sanctified in the midst of the Israelite people — I Hashem who sanctify you…” How does one verse connect to the other? This sequence seems disjointed and begs for deeper understanding.

To comprehend the Torah’s intent, we must first examine the context of these verses. The underlying message is that Kohanim are not only required to maintain outward sanctity and holiness but must also cultivate a holy heart and pure intentions. This is underscored by the subsequent verse, וְשַׁמְרְתֶּם מִצְו‍ֹתַי וַעֲשִׂיתֶם אֹתָם, which employs a double formulation. Many commentators explain that וְשַׁמְרְתֶּם pertains to the heart – to one’s inner sincerity and intention, while וַעֲשִׂיתֶם refers to the actual performance of the commandments. This duality highlights that the Kohanim must harmonize external observance with inner devotion. This interpretation aligns with the other explanation of the commentators which is that וְשַׁמְרְתֶּם וַעֲשִׂיתֶם refers to learning (study) and action. The act of learning and then performing is analogous to aligning one’s intent with their outward actions.

Thus, the concept of קידוש ה׳ is intrinsically linked to this balance. The sanctity of God’s name is not solely a product of outward ritual but is deeply rooted in the integrity of one’s intentions. When the Kohanim serve with both sincere hearts and proper actions, they embody the sanctification of God’s name. Similarly, for all of Israel, true sanctification arises from a synthesis of internal intention and external practice.

This profound connection between inner purity and outward observance teaches us that to truly sanctify Hashem's name, we must ensure that our hearts and actions are unified in their devotion. It is through this harmonious balance that we can fulfill the mitzvah of קידוש ה׳ and sanctify the name of Hashem in the truest sense.