Dvar Torah Acharei Mos - Kedoshim 5786 - The Holiness of Patience

In Parshas Kedoshim, the Torah states:

“You shall not eat over the blood; you shall not practice sorcery, and you shall not believe in lucky times.” (Vayikra 19:26)

The meaning of the phrase “You shall not eat over the blood” is not immediately clear. The Ramban explains it in a narrow sense, referring to ancient sorcerers who would use blood as part of their rituals to predict the future.

Rashi, however, takes a broader approach. Citing the Gemara in Sanhedrin (63a), he notes that this verse is interpreted in multiple ways, including:

·       A prohibition against eating sacrificial meat before the blood has been properly sprinkled on the altar;

·       A prohibition against eating from a non-consecrated animal (chullin) before its life has fully departed.

·        

Rashi mentions that there are additional interpretations in the Gemara—but notably, he highlights only these two. Why these? What do they share in common?

Rabbi Munk explains that both cases emphasize a single underlying principle: restraint. In each instance, a person is technically entitled to eat—but must delay. The food will be permitted, yet one must wait for the proper moment.

Rashi, therefore, is teaching that the primary message of this verse is not about sorcery or ritual practice alone, but about the ability to control immediate desire—even when fulfillment is allowed.

This theme appears earlier in the parsha. The Torah commands:

“When you come to the land and plant any food tree, you shall treat its fruit as forbidden; for three years it shall be forbidden to you… In the fourth year, all its fruit shall be sanctified… and in the fifth year, you may eat its fruit.” (Vayikra 19:23–25)

The mitzvah of orlah requires a person to invest years of effort—planting, watering, nurturing—without enjoying the fruit. Only after several years may one benefit.

Rabbi Munk explains that mitzvos like these are placed specifically in Parshas Kedoshim because they define kedushah (holiness). Holiness is not only about avoiding what is forbidden; it is about elevating oneself by exercising discipline even within what is permitted. The ability to delay gratification, to step back from immediate desire, is itself an expression of sanctity.

This idea runs counter to the culture around us. Modern society promotes immediacy—instant communication, instant delivery, instant access. We are conditioned to expect results now, with minimal delay.

The Torah offers a different vision. Growth comes through patience, through measured restraint. Yaakov Avinu worked seven years to marry Rochel, demonstrating commitment and perseverance. Miriam stood watch over her brother Moshe by the Nile, waiting for the right moment to act and ensure his safety.

Kedushah, then, is not achieved in dramatic moments alone, but in quiet acts of self-control—in choosing to wait, to pause, to act deliberately rather than impulsively.

This lesson applies in everyday life: in how we speak, how we respond to others, and how we manage our desires. By developing patience with family, colleagues, and ourselves, we refine our character and strengthen our relationships.

In doing so, we fulfill the Torah’s call:

“You shall be holy, for I, Hashem your G-d, am holy.” (Vayikra 19:2)