What is the meaning of Leviticus 16:2? And the LORD said to Moses The very first words remind us that the command originates with God Himself, not human opinion. His voice directs the life of His people (Exodus 19:5; John 10:27). Moses, the mediator, receives revelation so that Israel may live under God’s terms rather than human imagination (Deuteronomy 4:1–2). Tell your brother Aaron Aaron, as high priest, carries the nation’s representative role before God (Exodus 28:1). The instruction filters through Moses to Aaron, underscoring orderly leadership (1 Corinthians 14:40) and the seriousness attached to priestly duty (Hebrews 5:1–4). Not to enter freely “Freely” (or “at any time,” v. 2) points to restricted access. Worshipers do not set the schedule; God does (Ecclesiastes 5:1–2). Hebrews 9:7 recalls that only once a year, on the Day of Atonement, could the high priest enter—with blood. Spontaneity in sacred matters apart from divine instruction invites judgment (2 Samuel 6:6–7; Acts 5:1–11). Into the Most Holy Place behind the veil This inner sanctuary, separated by a curtain, dramatized the boundary between a holy God and sinful people (Exodus 26:33). Hebrews 10:19–20 later celebrates Christ tearing that veil, but here it still stands as a barrier teaching reverence (Psalm 99:5). In front of the mercy seat on the ark The mercy seat, or “atonement cover,” rested atop the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:17–22). Blood sprinkled there would satisfy divine justice (Leviticus 16:14–15). Romans 3:25 uses the same concept—God presenting Christ as the propitiation—showing the Old Testament picture pointing forward. Or else he will die Holiness is not optional. Nadab and Abihu had recently perished for unauthorized fire (Leviticus 10:1–3), and this warning echoes that tragedy. God’s mercy never nullifies His righteousness (Nahum 1:3; Hebrews 12:28–29). Because I appear in the cloud above the mercy seat God’s manifest presence dwells there (Exodus 40:34–35). The cloud both conceals and reveals; it protects humanity from a glory that would overwhelm (1 Kings 8:10–11). Theophany demands preparation—blood, incense, humility—foreshadowing the once-for-all appearance of Christ in the true sanctuary (Hebrews 9:24). summary Leviticus 16:2 lays down the divine protocol for approaching God: only the appointed mediator, at the appointed time, in the appointed way. It highlights the chasm between human sin and divine holiness while pointing toward the One who would finally open the veil for all who trust Him (Hebrews 10:19–22). |
    |