Parshat Acharei/Kedoshim
‘So that the Land will not spit you out for how you have contaminated it, as it spat out the nation which was there before you’ (Vayikra 18:28)
This verse follows laws regarding forbidden relationships. It is midway between those laws and the societal laws of chapter 19, like the ‘famous’ injunctions to be ‘holy’ (i.e. even what is permitted to you is not always good for you, according to part of Ramban’s explanation) and ‘love your neighbour as yourself’.
The Land of Israel has a kind of personality that cannot bear sin, emphasised by the verb ‘lehaki’ meaning to spit out. The Torah says that if the Jews fall into the same ways as those of the previous inhabitants of the land, such as those listed in chapter 18, then the Jews’ tenure on the Land is also in jeopardy. While we always have the right to the Land of Israel, our own behaviour may prevent us for exercising that right until we are able to do so correctly.
This is a salutary lesson whether we are in the Land or not. Verse 25 indicates that the behaviour of the Cannanites led to their loss of the Land. Verse 28 warns us not to emulate them. The prophet Yechezkel/Ezekiel speaks in similar terms in the Haftara (which Haftara to read today is another interesting question, but not for now!). Also see Talmud Shabbat 33a which discusses why the sins listed are linked to losing the Land.
Actions of individuals, in any society, do not impact simply on themselves. They also impact on society as a whole, as our actions can shape the kind of people we become and the kind of decisions that we make. Doing ‘your own thing’ can, in some circumstances, ultimately become a selfish decision. The Land of Israel and the Jewish people are like a corporate body. Our actions impact on ourselves and our community. The Land of Israel has a special status as a place to shine (see Devarim 11:12). Here, the Torah tells us that if we wish to exercise our rights, we have to exercise our responsibilities. Through doing so, may we ultimately find a more meaningful life.
