Definition: And ye shall be holy unto me: for I the LORD [am] holy, and have severed you from [other] people, that ye should be mine.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Leviticus 20:26. It’s a really important concept about holiness and relationship with God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it means: “You are to be set apart and dedicated to God; you are to be holy to Him, and that’s the reason we’ve separated you from everything else.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “Leviticus 20” : This refers to a specific part of the Old Testament law that focused on rituals and rules for how people were to behave. It was like a set of guidelines for being right with God. “…I the LORD [am]…” : This is a very important phrase. “The Lord” is a title of respect, meaning God himself. The ‘am’ makes it clear that this isn't just any man but God speaking directly to us. "...severed you from other people..." : This is the core of the verse. It means we have been created and given life, but we are now separated from the rest of the world – our families, friends, and even nations. We’re meant to be focused on God alone. "...that ye should be mine." : This is the reward for being holy. It’s a promise that God wants to dwell within us, to be in our lives, and to give us his blessing. What does this say about holiness? The Bible describes holiness as something that means: Being separate: It's not just about doing good things; it’s about being distinct from the world – focused on God. Being dedicated: It requires a commitment to follow God's will and rules. Being pleasing to God: Ultimately, holiness is about aligning with God’s character and love. Why is this important? This verse emphasizes that our relationship with God isn’t just about what we do , but how we live . It’s a reminder that we are meant to be living lives of reverence, obedience, and devotion. It's not enough to simply follow the rules; it means being a reflection of God in our actions and thoughts. In short: It’s a beautiful picture of a relationship where we are given a special position – a place of honor – with God, and that’s why we need to live life according to His will. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give some examples of how holiness is demonstrated in everyday life? Discuss the historical context of this passage?