Then the LORD said to Moses,
This phrase introduces a direct communication from God to Moses, a common occurrence in the Pentateuch, highlighting Moses' role as a mediator between God and the Israelites. The use of "LORD" in all caps signifies the translation of the Tetragrammaton, YHWH, the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. This divine communication underscores the authority and sacredness of the instructions that follow. Moses, as a central figure in the Exodus narrative, is often seen as a type of Christ, serving as a deliverer and lawgiver. This connection is reinforced in the New Testament, where Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate fulfillment of the law and the prophets (Matthew 5:17). The historical context of this communication is during the Israelites' journey in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt, a period marked by the establishment of laws and guidelines to shape the identity and holiness of the nation.1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is holy and calls His people to holiness. He is the ultimate authority and source of the laws given to Israel.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His laws and commandments to the people. Moses acts as a mediator between God and Israel.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are the recipients of the laws and commandments given through Moses. They are called to live in a way that reflects God's holiness.

4. Mount Sinai
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, it is the place where God gave the Law to Moses. It represents the divine-human encounter and the giving of the covenant.

5. Holiness Code
Leviticus 19 is part of what is often referred to as the Holiness Code, a section of Leviticus that emphasizes the need for Israel to be holy as God is holy.God's Authority
Recognize that the laws and commandments come from God Himself, who has the ultimate authority over our lives. We are called to submit to His will.

Call to Holiness
Understand that holiness is not just a set of rules but a way of life that reflects God's character. We are to be set apart for His purposes.

Mediation and Leadership
Appreciate the role of leaders like Moses who communicate God's will to His people. In the New Testament, Jesus is our ultimate mediator.

Continuity of Scripture
See the connection between the Old and New Testaments in the call to holiness. God's standards remain consistent throughout the Bible.

Practical Holiness
Consider how the principles of holiness apply to our daily lives, influencing our actions, thoughts, and relationships.Top 10 Lessons from Leviticus 19

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(1) And the Lord spake unto Moses.--The prohibitions in the preceding chapter, which are designed to regulate the moral conduct of relations and connections towards each other in their family circles, are now followed by precepts which affect the Israelite's life in all its bearings, both towards God and man. Hence the authorities during the second Temple regarded it as "embodying the Decalogue," for which reason, as well as for the fact that "it contains the sum and substance of the precepts of the Law, it is read in public." The precepts in this chapter are divided into sixteen groups, eight of which end with the emphatic reiteration, "I am the Lord your God" (Leviticus 19:2-4; Leviticus 19:10; Leviticus 19:25; Leviticus 19:31; Leviticus 19:34; Leviticus 19:36), and eight with the shorter formula, "I am the Lord" (Leviticus 19:12; Leviticus 19:14; Leviticus 19:16; Leviticus 19:18; Leviticus 19:28; Leviticus 19:30; Leviticus 19:32; Leviticus 19:37). . . . From the prohibition of moral uncleanness exhibiting itself in the form of incest and licentiousness, the legislator proceeds to a series of laws and commandments against other kinds of immorality, inculcating piety, righteousness, and kindness. Chapter 19 may be regarded as an extension of the previous chapter in this direction, after which the subject of chapter 18, is again taken up in chapter 20. The precepts now given are not arranged systematically, though, as Keil has remarked, "while grouped together rather according to a loose association of ideas than according to any logical arrangement, they are all linked together by the common purpose expressed in the words, Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy.' " They begin by inculcating (in verses 3, 4) duties which fall under the heads of

(1) the fifth commandment of the Decalogue,

(2) the fourth,

(3) the first, . . .

Parallel Commentaries ...

Then the LORD
יְהוָ֖ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

said
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר (way·ḏab·bêr)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue

to
אֶל־ (’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

Moses,
מֹשֶׁ֥ה (mō·šeh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 4872: Moses -- a great Israelite leader, prophet and lawgiver


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OT Law: Leviticus 19:1 Yahweh spoke to Moses saying (Le Lv Lev.)