YOU SHALL KEEP MY CHARGE, NOT FOLLOWING DISGUTING THE PRACTICES THAT WERE DONE BEFORE YOU , AND YOU SHALL NOT BECOME DEFILED THROUGH THEM. I AM THE THE L-RD YOUR G-D (Vayikra 18:30)
This verse is preceded by a long list of forbidden sexual relationships. Does "keep my charge" simply mean not to engage in these relationships, or is it meant more broadly?
Other mitzvos serve as a safeguard preventing such relationships: forbidden foods, nidah, zavah, the woman who gives birth*, and other cases of tumah. A life of discipline and sanctity in multiple areas is necessary to have the fortitude to follow the restrictions against forbidden relationships (Sforno).
No way of life is as successful in achieving holiness in relationships as the Torah system. Other creeds having the best intentions, but lacking the Torah's mechanisms, have not worked as effectively. With the safeguards of the Torah, holiness becomes realistic.
*see the entry to Tazria Metzora
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