Dictionary.com defines the word extraordinary as “exceptional in character, amount, extent, degree, etc.; noteworthy; remarkable.” Based on this definition, it seems amazing to be referred to as extraordinary, but I’ve always viewed it as something different. The Torah describes being extraordinary as something different. That definition can be found in this week’s double Parsha, Acharei Mot/Kedoshim. 

In Acharei Mot, we learn about what happens after the death of Aaron’s sons who died after coming too close to God’s presence. G-d warns Moses to tell Aaron not to make the same mistakes as his children, and instructs Aaron about the customs and traditions they should follow on the 10th of Tishrei—the date that we celebrate Yom Kippur every year. 

In Kedoshim, the Torah explains that because G-d is holy, the Israelites must be holy, so the Torah provides a list of laws to help the Israelites achieve that holiness, which without holiness cannot be attained. 

Most faiths view their higher power as extraordinary, but in Parshat Kedoshim, G-d’s definition of that word is closer to mine than the dictionary; however, it is, at the same time, something entirely different. 

G-d explains that the Israelites can achieve holiness simply by being a good person. The Torah lists many things that Israelites should NOT do, such as making fun of or hurting people who cannot defend themselves, disrespecting their elders, and being greedy. The Israelites are also instructed to treat others how they wish to be treated, and respect and honor G-d’s laws. All of these laws are given to them with instructions on how to be more like G-d, who, in our eyes, is extraordinary. 

I didn’t realize until after IC 2026 that being extraordinary doesn’t have to mean my definition. Being extraordinary lies in the simple acts of loving kindness that we can do every day, and I saw so many people take that to heart at IC. Seeing those people around me helped me form a new definition of extraordinary; one that is flexible, and changes depending on each person, place, or time.  

Extraordinary doesn’t have to mean that someone is actually beyond ordinary or spectacular. It can mean putting yourself out there and stepping up to lead, even when it’s hard, or it can simply mean smiling at someone when they had a bad day. The Torah teaches us that being extraordinary lies in the simplicity of one of the most important lines of this portion: "love thy neighbor as thyself". It also lies in the core beliefs of our movement in the Menorah Pledge and Cardinal Principles, which teach us these same values of love and respect.

BBYO and the Torah both remind us that being extraordinary isn’t always about being the best and brightest or the loudest person in the room. It’s about having the courage to step up and speak up when something is wrong. It’s about making mistakes and learning from them, but above all, it’s about being a good person. 

Shabbat Shalom,

Maia Asman

Greater Atlanta Region, Lehavah BBG #252

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Simchat Torah Challenge Podcast Series

Interested in listening to this week's parsha? Check out BBYO Austria's take on Parshat Kedoshim as a part of the Simchat Torah Challenge Podcast Series. The Simchat Torah Challenge is a yearlong journey where teens from around the Order are exploring the Torah, one parsha at a time. Teens are connecting with the text, sharing their thoughts, and exploring how it relates to their own lives.