“Like the deeds of the land of Egypt where you dwelled — you shall not do.” (Vayikra 18:3)
The Ramban quoting Chazal explains that we are warned to distance ourselves from the Egyptians’ adulterous culture. A person may think he would never commit these disgraceful crimes however the Torah cautions us to be meticulous about avoiding these sins lest we find ourselves acting similarly.
The Creator knows us well and warns us: “Don’t believe in yourself [until the day of your death].” One who sees the punishment of the sotah is urged to become a nazir — only this will prevent him from committing such a shameful act. (Merosh Amanah Rav Elazar Menachem Man Shach)
The people ofIsraelwere still reeling from the Egyptian exile. Their hearts bore nothing but scorn and loathing for this stubborn immoral nation which tortured and tormented them. Why is it necessary to repeat the obvious warning “The deeds of thelandofEgypt… you shall not do?”
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