He had discussed a similar topic of whether being a light unto the nations was a mitzvah. According to his discussions with such distinguished Rabbinim as Rabbi Orlewek he said that all agree it is neither a "mitzvah or directive of any kind but rather a descriptive term for the Jewish People, most specifically in the times of Moshiach." His question was whether I had researched and found out if being a Kiddush Hashem is indeed a mitzvah.
My answer to whether I have researched it is no, not to a significant enough degree; however, I have been looking for sources that discuss Kiddushei Hashem as well as Chillul Hashem (the opposite of Kiddush Hashem) . One of my very amazing Rabbis gave me a source sheet of many of the instances in which Kiddush Hashem was discussed as well as some regarding Chillul Hashem. What I found quite interesting was that Chillul Hashem is discussed quite a bit more. I will try to give the source and more specific information in a later post but the punishments and consequences for being a Chillul Hashem were quite horrible.
One thing to note is that one of the most associated circumstances with sanctifying Hashem is when one gives up their life (in a kosher manner) for the sake of Heaven. However, please do not look for opportunities to do this.
My personal answer to the question of whether being a Kiddush Hashem is a mitzvah is that it may not be on its own but it is definitely a part of all other mitzvot. We can sanctify Hashem through everything we do. I think of Kiddushei Hashem as the ways that I beautify the mitzvot I am obligated to do. For example: Smiling and being extra nice when giving tzedaka. It is said that we don't even get the mitzvah if we don't smile.
Another way I have heard Kiddush Hashem defined is that it is when a Jew motivates another Jew to do mitzvot. This is a beautiful idea and since learning it as a possibility I have tried to incorporate it in my own efforts.
It is very important that we all continue to act as Kiddushei Hashem and also as a light unto the nations in a way that is powerful yet respectful! Have a good month. I hope to blog more often and I hope to see more comments as well! I may have to get more controversial...
