QUESTION: What is the mitzvah of V’Kidashto (honoring a Kohen)?

ANSWER: The Torah (Vayikra 21:8) commands us “V’Kidashto, and you shall make him holy,” instructing us that we must treat Kohanim in a manner that demonstrates they are holy. The Gemara (Gittin 59b) clarifies the mitzvah as follows. One must place the Kohen first for all matters of Kedusha (holiness). They should be given the opportunity to read the Torah first (i.e., the first aliya), they should be chosen to lead the bentching, and they should be served first with the best portion of food. There is discussion among Rishonim whether this is a Torah obligation or a Rabbinic commandment. Most poskim consider V’Kidashto a Torah obligation (see Magen Avrohom 201:4). The Rema (OC 128:45) writes that there is also a prohibition to use a Kohen for one’s own personal benefit, unless the Kohen gives permission. Because Kohanim were separated to serve in the Beis Hamikdash, using a Kohen for one’s own benefit is akin to benefiting from the property of the Beis Hamikdash, which is forbidden. The Taz (128:39) writes that the Kohen can only agree to serve another if the Kohen has some personal benefit. Otherwise, it is considered degrading, and a Kohen is not permitted to demean the honor of the Kehuna. The Machatzis Hashekel, Elya Rabba and many others disagree with the Taz and write that a Kohen can forgo honor even if he receives no benefit. The Mishnah Berurah (128:175) writes that lechatchila, when possible, it is best to follow the Taz.

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The Gerald & Karin Feldhamer OU Kosher Halacha Yomis is dedicated to the memory of Rav Yisroel Belsky, zt"l, who served as halachic consultant for OU Kosher for more than 28 years; many of the responses in Halacha Yomis are based on the rulings of Rabbi Belsky. Subscribe to the Halacha Yomis daily email here.