Leviticus 20:26

You are to be holy to Me because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be My own.

Study Bible

You are to be holy to Me
The phrase "You are to be holy to Me" emphasizes the personal relationship between God and His people. The Hebrew word for "holy" is "qadosh," which means set apart, sacred, or consecrated. This holiness is not just a moral or ethical standard but a state of being that reflects God's own nature. In the ancient Near Eastern context, holiness was often associated with the divine and the sacred, setting apart what is dedicated to God from the common or profane. This call to holiness is a reminder that the Israelites are to live in a way that reflects their unique relationship with God, distinct from the surrounding nations.

because I, the LORD, am holy
The declaration "because I, the LORD, am holy" underscores the foundational reason for the Israelites' call to holiness. The name "LORD" here is the tetragrammaton YHWH, the covenant name of God, which signifies His eternal, self-existent nature. God's holiness is intrinsic to His character, and it is the standard by which His people are to model their lives. This reflects the biblical principle that God's people are to imitate His attributes, living in a manner that honors and glorifies Him. The holiness of God is a central theme throughout Scripture, highlighting His purity, righteousness, and otherness.

and I have set you apart from the nations
The phrase "and I have set you apart from the nations" speaks to the divine election and purpose for Israel. The Hebrew word for "set apart" is "badal," which means to divide, separate, or distinguish. This separation is not merely physical but spiritual and moral, indicating a distinct identity and mission. In the historical context, Israel was surrounded by pagan nations with different customs and religious practices. God's setting apart of Israel was to establish them as a beacon of His truth and righteousness, a nation through whom He would reveal His character and purposes to the world.

to be My own
Finally, "to be My own" conveys a sense of possession and belonging. The Hebrew word "li" (to Me) indicates a personal and covenantal relationship. This phrase highlights the intimate bond between God and His people, where they are not just a chosen nation but His treasured possession. In the broader biblical narrative, this concept of belonging is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are described as God's own people, called out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). This belonging is both a privilege and a responsibility, calling God's people to live in a way that reflects their identity as His own.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, whom He delivered from Egypt and to whom He gave the Law through Moses.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the Law from God on Mount Sinai.

3. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave the Law to Moses, including the instructions found in Leviticus.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who calls His people to holiness.

5. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where they were to live according to God's statutes and commandments.

Teaching Points

Call to Holiness
Leviticus 20:26 emphasizes that holiness is not just a suggestion but a command from God. As believers, we are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness.

Separation from the World
The verse highlights the importance of being set apart from the world. This separation is not about isolation but about living distinctively according to God's standards.

Identity in God
Our identity as God's people is rooted in His holiness. Understanding who we are in Christ should influence our actions and decisions.

Obedience to God's Commands
Holiness involves obedience to God's laws and commands. It is through obedience that we demonstrate our love and commitment to God.

Reflecting God's Character
As God's people, we are to reflect His character in our daily lives. This means embodying attributes such as love, mercy, and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Leviticus 20:26 enhance our comprehension of its call to holiness?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of being "set apart" in our modern-day lives without becoming isolated from the world?

3. How does the call to holiness in Leviticus 20:26 relate to the New Testament teachings on holiness, such as those found in 1 Peter 1:15-16?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our identity in Christ influences our daily decisions and actions?

5. How can we balance the call to be separate from the world with the command to love and engage with those who do not yet know Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:6
This verse speaks of Israel being a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, which parallels the call to holiness in Leviticus 20:26.

1 Peter 1:15-16
Peter echoes the call to holiness found in Leviticus, urging believers to be holy in all their conduct.

Deuteronomy 7:6
This verse emphasizes Israel's status as a holy people chosen by God, reinforcing the theme of separation and holiness.

Romans 12:1-2
Paul urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which aligns with the call to holiness in Leviticus.

Hebrews 12:14
This verse stresses the importance of pursuing holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.