5 Minute Torah - Acharei Mot-Kedoshim - Limiting What Is Permitted

What does it actually mean to be holy? In Acharei Mot–Kedoshim, we’re given a sweeping collection of commandments—honor your parents, keep the Sabbath, care for the poor, pursue justice, and love your neighbor as yourself. But all of it flows from one foundational command: “You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy.” But here’s the question: Is holiness just about avoiding what’s forbidden… or something more? It’s easy to see how the Torah sets boundaries through “thou shalt not.” But what about the things that are permitted? Could it be that holiness is found not only in what we avoid—but in what we choose to limit? Are we living disciplined lives… or just permissible ones? From the wisdom of the sages to the teachings of Yeshua and the words of Paul, this portion challenges us to rethink holiness—not as distance from the world, but as intentional restraint within it. So what does it look like to be set apart in a world where almost everything is allowed? And could it be that true holiness begins where our freedom ends? Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, pleaseconsider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/giveTithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563PayPal | giving@shalomacon.orgText "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, pleaseconsider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/giveTithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563PayPal | giving@shalomacon.orgText "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!