59

Not to imitate them in customs and clothing

The Luchos - Ten Commandments
מִצְוָה עֲשֵׂה - Positive Commandment
מִצְוָה לֹא תַעֲשֶׂה - Negative Commandment
Idolatry – עֲבוֹדָה זָרָה

Do not imitate the customs, clothing, or manners of idolaters.

This mitzvah forbids adopting the distinctive practices of idol-worshipping nations, including their superstitions, celebrations, and manners of dress. The Torah commands Israel to remain distinct, holy, and separate, avoiding foreign customs that could lead to assimilation or spiritual corruption. Jewish identity and sanctity are safeguarded by refraining from imitating nations whose practices are rooted in idolatry.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

  • Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 11:1): Forbids following customs unique to idolaters, whether in dress, grooming, or behavior.
  • Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 262): The root is to preserve the uniqueness of Israel and prevent confusion between holy service and foreign practices.
  • Talmud (Sanhedrin 52b): Warns that even minor imitation of idolaters’ practices can open the door to assimilation.
(Source: Chabad.org)
וְלֹ֤א תֵֽלְכוּ֙ בְּחֻקֹּ֣ת הַגּ֔וֹי אֲשֶׁר־אֲנִ֥י מְשַׁלֵּ֖חַ מִפְּנֵיכֶ֑ם כִּ֤י אֶת־כׇּל־אֵ֙לֶּה֙ עָשׂ֔וּ וָאָקֻ֖ץ בָּֽם׃ - פָּרָשַׁת קְדשִׁים
Leviticus 20:23 - "You shall not follow the practices of the nation that I am sending away from before you, for they committed all these [sins], and I was disgusted with them."

This Mitzvah's Fundamentals

Idolatry - עֲבוֹדָה זָרָה

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Mitzvot that prohibit worship of false gods and practices associated with idol worship.

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Holiness - קְדֻשָּׁה

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Represents the concept of  spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.

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