Key Details about this week Torah reading portion of Acharei Mot and Kedoshim:

WITH GOD’S HELP this week of Iyar 6 -12 5785 (May 4 -10 2025), the Torah portions are Acharei Mot and Kedoshim. These portions are typically read together in most Jewish communities.

This short article was created with the help of AI tool and has been reviewed by a translator.

Acharei Mot

• Scriptural Reference: Leviticus 16:1 – 18:30
• Themes:
• Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): Description of the rituals and sacrifices associated with Yom Kippur, including the scapegoat ritual.
• Holiness and Purity: Guidelines for maintaining spiritual purity and the responsibilities of the priests.
• Law of Atonement: Emphasizes the importance of atonement and repentance.

Kedoshim

• Scriptural Reference: Leviticus 19:1 – 20:27
• Themes:
• Holiness Code: A series of laws emphasizing the moral and ethical behavior expected of the Israelites.
• Love Thy Neighbor: The commandment to love one’s neighbor as oneself is central to this portion.
• Social Justice: Instructions on treating others fairly, maintaining ethical business practices, and showing compassion to the vulnerable.

Summary of the Portions:

1. Acharei Mot:

• Focuses on the rituals of Yom Kippur, emphasizing the need for atonement after the death of Aaron’s sons.
• Establishes laws concerning sexuality and other practices to maintain community purity and holiness.

1. Kedoshim:

• Contains fundamental ethical teachings, including prohibitions against practices that harm community integrity.
• Strongly advocates for love and respect within the community, integrating individual holiness with social responsibility.

Common Themes in Both Portions:

• Holiness and Community: Both sections emphasize the concept of holiness, relating individual actions to the greater community.
• Moral and Ethical Conduct: The texts instruct on how to live ethically, highlighting the relationship between thoughtful personal conduct and the well-being of society.

This week’s reading inspires reflection on personal and communal values, challenging individuals to consider how they live out the principles of holiness and ethical behavior in their daily lives.