He must not eat grape seeds

Faith – אֱמוּנָה

• Rambam (Hilchot Nezirut 5:2) rules that grape seeds are explicitly forbidden to the Nazir. Faith is expressed by observing Hashem’s command even in small details that seem insignificant to human reasoning.

Reverence – יִרְאַת שָׁמַיִם

• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 371) explains that abstaining from grape seeds builds a protective boundary. Reverence for Hashem’s law motivates avoiding even the smallest element of grapes, reinforcing awe of Heaven.

Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה

• Talmud (Nazir 34b) includes grape seeds in the Nazir’s prohibitions to highlight his elevated sanctity. Holiness demands not only separation from indulgence but also discipline in even minor matters.

Nazir – נָזִיר

• Rambam identifies grape seeds and grape skins as part of the Nazir’s defining restrictions. This demonstrates the Torah’s intention that the Nazir’s abstinence is all-encompassing.

Kashrut – כַּשְׁרוּת

• Normally grape seeds are permissible, but the Nazir’s vow transforms them into a forbidden food. This illustrates how kedushah can redefine dietary practice under special spiritual conditions.

Speech – דָּבָר

• The Nazir’s abstinence originates in his words of vow. His speech creates binding halachic status, turning something ordinary into an act of obedience or violation.

Vows / Oaths – נְדָרִים / שְׁבוּעוֹת

• Sefer HaChinuch emphasizes that the Nazir’s vow binds him to avoid even grape seeds. This demonstrates the full halachic weight of vows, extending even to trivial items.

Community – קְהִלָּה

• Rashi (Numbers 6:4) points out that the Torah specifically included seeds so that no one could dismiss them as too minor to matter. This reinforces communal awareness that consecration is serious and comprehensive.

Bein Adam L’Makom (between a person and G-d)

• This mitzvah expresses loyalty to Hashem by honoring the sanctity of the vow in every detail. Even the smallest act of consumption matters in one’s relationship with G-d.