Biblical Answer

The concept of being "set apart" is a central theme in the book of Leviticus. In Leviticus 19:28, the command is given not to "cut off the hair of your temples or your beard or remove the edges of your beard." This command is part of the larger context of the "Holiness Code," which emphasizes the importance of living a life that is distinct from the surrounding culture. The priests, in particular, are called to live in a holy manner, setting themselves apart from the rest of the people (Leviticus 20:8; 21:8b, 15; 22:32).

In this context, the command in Leviticus 19:28 is not primarily about physical appearance, but rather about spiritual identity. The Israelites were called to live as God's holy people, distinct from the surrounding nations (Leviticus 19:2). This means that they were to prioritize their relationship with God above all else, and to live in a way that reflects their spiritual identity. The command to not cut off the hair of one's temples or beard is likely related to the idea of not profaning or polluting one's body, which was considered sacred in ancient Israelite culture.

The significance of Leviticus 19:28 can be seen in its repetition in the New Testament, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of loving one's neighbor (Mark 12:30-31). While the specific command in Leviticus 19:28 may not be directly applicable in modern times, the underlying principle of living a life that is distinct from the surrounding culture and prioritizing one's relationship with God is still relevant today. As followers of Jesus, we are called to live in a way that reflects our spiritual identity, and to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. This means living in a way that is holy, separate, and distinct from the world around us.