"And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory." Isaiah 6:3
Kadosh, Kadosh, Kadosh (Holy, Holy, Holy) is an phrase that conjures up profound thoughts and feelings for both Jews and Christians. What does it mean to be "Holy" and why is it repeated three times.
"Kadosh" (קדוש) is a Hebrew word for "holy" or "sacred." It means to be set apart, dedicated, or consecrated to God. The concept of holiness in Judaism and Christianity implies a sense of purity and sanctity. To be "holy" is to be separated from the ordinary or profane.
Here are some other memorable scriptures that include "Holy/kadosh":
Hebrew Bible:
Leviticus 11:44-45 -- "I am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy. Do not make yourselves unclean by any creature that moves along the ground. I am the Lord, who brought you up out of Egypt to be your God; therefore be holy, because I am holy."
Exodus 19:6 -- "You will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites."
New Testament:
1 Peter 1:15-16 -- "But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"
Revelation 4:8 -- "Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under its wings. Day and night they never stop saying: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.'"
The Core
The Hebrew word "kadosh" (קדוש) comes from the root ק־ד־ש (Kaf-Dalet-Shin). Below are links that will provide a closer look at the meaning of these Hebrew letters:
Shin ש - blog post needed
To be "set apart" in the context of the Hebrew word "kadosh" has spiritual, moral, communal, and practical implications.
A divine relationship is characterized by devotion, worship, and adherence to God's commandments. Relationships take effort and in the context of our relationship with El Shaddai (God Almighty) this includes worship and obedience. God has expressed ethical expectations that include honesty, integrity, compassion, and justice.
The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
Being Kadosh means having an identy which sets us apart in our community. Apparently, God has a role or purpose for that which He deems holy. The lifestyle and practices of a holy person or Nation are set to a higher standard. A Holy person or Nation is a light to others.
Jeremiah 2:2-3 --The word of the Lord came to me: “Go and proclaim in the hearing of Jerusalem:“This is what the Lord says: “‘I remember the devotion of your youth, how as a bride you loved me and followed me through the wilderness, through a land not sown. Israel was Holy (Kadosh) to the Lord, the first fruits of his harvest; all who devoured her were held guilty, and disaster overtook them,’” declares the Lord.
The Levitical priests were set apart for service in the Tabernacle/Temple, performing sacrifices and maintaining ritual purity. They are to be Light to the Jewish people.
In the New Testament, Christians are called to be holy, set apart by their faith in Yeshua Hamashiach and their commitment to living according to His teachings.
1 Peter 2:9 -- "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
The threefold repetition of "kadosh" in the Bible is a powerful literary and theological tool used to highlight the absolute and supreme holiness of God.
Ironically, holiness can evoke a sense of humility and even unworthiness coupled with a recognition of our limitations. In the Bible this is evident in the reaction of those who encounter God or divine beings. In Isaiah 6.5, Isaiah says:
"Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty."
Isaiah's reaction in the presence of the Holy One shows his deep awareness of his own sense of unworthiness. As I see it, Isaiah's reaction should serve to remind us of God's grandeur and instill the desire to live a more holy life.
LEST WE WAIT UNTIL WE ARE BEFORE GOD TO ADDRESS SPIRITUAL MATTERS AND OUR PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION.
Considers the following reasons not to wait:
1. Missed Opportunity for Growth: Engaging with spiritual principles and personal growth throughout our lives allows for ongoing development and a deeper relationship with God. Waiting until the end of life or until a direct encounter with God means missing out on the richness and transformation that can occur over time.
2. Uncertainty of Timing: We don't know when we will encounter God or when our lives will end. Procrastinating on spiritual matters can lead to regret if the opportunity to address them passes unexpectedly.
3. Impact on Others: Our spiritual journey and personal growth can positively influence those around us. By engaging with these matters now, we can be a source of inspiration and support for others, contributing to a more compassionate and loving community.
4. Alignment with Divine Will: Many religious teachings emphasize living according to God's will as an ongoing process. This involves daily choices, actions, and attitudes that reflect our faith and commitment. Delaying this until a final moment undermines the purpose of living a life aligned with divine principles.
5. Inner Peace and Fulfillment: Actively engaging in spiritual growth and addressing personal issues brings a sense of inner peace, fulfillment, and purpose. It allows us to live more fully and meaningfully, experiencing the joy and contentment that comes from a closer relationship with God.
HOLINESS STARTS NOW
The journey toward holiness begins in the present moment.
Immediate Transformation -- Holiness involves becoming more like God in our thoughts, actions, and character. Starting now allows us to begin this transformation immediately, shaping our lives and decisions in ways that reflect divine values.
Daily Practice -- Holiness is not a one-time event but a continuous process. By starting now, we integrate holy habits and attitudes into our daily lives, making them a natural part of who we are.
Positive Influence -- Living a holy life can positively impact those around us. Our actions, words, and attitudes can inspire and encourage others to pursue their own spiritual growth.
Preparedness -- Life is unpredictable, and we don't know what the future holds. By striving for holiness now, we ensure that we are spiritually prepared for whatever comes our way, including our eventual encounter with God.
Relationship with God -- Pursuing holiness deepens our relationship with God. It draws us closer to the divine, allowing us to experience God's presence and guidance more fully in our lives.
Fulfillment and Peace -- Holiness brings a sense of inner peace and fulfillment. It aligns us with our higher purpose and brings joy that comes from living in harmony with God's will -- Perfect Peace Shalom Shalom
By starting the journey toward holiness now, we embrace a life of ongoing spiritual growth, deeper connection with the divine, and a positive impact on the world around us.
I strive to be holy. Every day I fail. I thank God for grace and forgiveness. Then I try again.
KNOW THIS ABOUT HOLINESS
Holiness isn’t something achieved by our efforts alone. Relying on God’s strength, guidance, and the Holy Spirit will help us to overcome the world and grow closer to God.