Parashah Kedoshim

Teen Takeaways from Parashah Kedoshim

Parashah Kedoshim offers essential life lessons that are meaningful and relevant for teenagers as they navigate the challenges and choices of adolescence.

1. This chapter, called “The Holiness Code,” comes in the middle of the most tedious, priestly, heavy book of rules. This surprise chapter seems to be a refreshing break, yet commentators argue that it reminds us that morality and behavior are intertwined and ritual should lead us to self-improvement. What are some of the rituals you undertake that help to shape your character?
2. Striving for personal growth: Just like the parashah calls for holiness, teens can strive for personal growth and moral purity. It’s about making choices that align with your values and beliefs, even when faced with peer pressure or temptations. Have you ever thought that your Jewish tradition influenced your personal decision-making?
3. Respect for parents: Even as you gain independence, respecting and honoring your parents remains crucial. They’ve played a vital role in your life and deserve your gratitude and consideration. The teenage years often are the most challenging when it comes to our relationship with our parents, and theirs with us. While we want to be “our own boss,” we sometimes wish they would give us advice when we are in tough situations.
4. Social justice and fairness: Teens often encounter issues related to fairness and peer relationships. Remember the importance of treating everyone with kindness, fairness, and respect, regardless of differences. Stand up against bullying and injustice. Bullying is not just physical; it can consist of saying mean things or posting critical comments on social media.
5. Integrity and honesty: Honesty is a core value. Avoid dishonesty, cheating, and deceit in school and personal relationships. Upholding integrity helps build trust and self-respect.
6. Compassion and kindness: Be compassionate and kind to others, especially those who may be struggling or feeling left out. Acts of kindness, whether big or small, can make a significant difference in someone’s life. “Love your neighbor as yourself”: This verse underscores the importance of compassion, empathy, and fairness in interpersonal relationships.
7. Loving your neighbor is often thought of as a Christian teaching. Like so many of Jesus’ important sayings, he was actually repeating things he had learned in his Jewish education. This is an example of an opportunity to create ties of commonality with our friends who are not Jewish.
8. One of the motivations to study other peoples’ traditions is to get to know those traditions. Before we can love our neighbor, we must know our neighbor.
9. Often when people mistreat others, it is an indication that they may have poor self-images. They direct their criticism away from themselves rather than look painfully at their own shortcomings. We must love ourselves before we can genuinely love our neighbors.
10. Maintaining healthy relationships: Parashah Kedoshim encourages purity in relationships. This means respecting boundaries, practicing safe and consensual dating, and prioritizing emotional well-being in relationships. It also includes how we talk about our relationships with our other friends.
11. Balancing responsibilities: Just as the parashah mentions observing the Sabbath, find a healthy balance between school, extracurricular activities, and downtime. Rest and self-care are vital for your well-being. Taking time off, away from your busy schedule, can give a boost in quality to the time you spend doing your activities when you return after the break!
12. Caring for your mental health: Prioritize your mental health. Don’t be afraid to seek help or talk to someone you trust if you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, or other emotional challenges.
13. Rejecting superstition: In a world filled with myths and rumors, it’s essential to rely on reason and ethical principles. Avoid superstitions or harmful practices that can negatively impact your decision-making.
14. Mindful eating: Pay attention to what you eat. Make healthy choices and practice moderation in your diet. A balanced diet can contribute to your overall well-being.

Download this parashah summary