What is the meaning of Leviticus 17:1? Then • This word signals continuity, picking up the narrative flow right after the Day of Atonement regulations of chapter 16 (Leviticus 16:34). • It tells us that God’s revelation is progressive and orderly; He builds instruction step by step (Isaiah 28:10). • “Then” also reminds us that what follows is historically anchored—real moments in time, not abstractions (Exodus 19:1). the LORD • The covenant name points to God’s self-existence and faithfulness (Exodus 3:14; Malachi 3:6). • By identifying Himself, the LORD anchors the coming commands in His holy character (Leviticus 11:44). • Because He is the LORD, His words carry absolute authority and demand obedience (Deuteronomy 6:4–5). said • Scripture repeatedly stresses that God speaks; His word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12). • Divine speech creates (Genesis 1:3), convicts (John 16:8), and governs covenant life (Psalm 19:7-9). • Here, “said” marks the start of fresh instruction regarding sacrifices and blood (Leviticus 17:2-11). to Moses • Moses stands as mediator, receiving God’s word for the people (Numbers 12:6-8). • His unique prophetic role foreshadows the greater Mediator, Christ (Deuteronomy 18:15; Hebrews 3:1-6). • The phrase underscores God’s chosen chain of revelation—Moses hears, Israel obeys (Exodus 24:3-4). summary Leviticus 17:1 is more than a narrative transition. Each phrase underscores the reality that, at a definite moment, the covenant-keeping LORD verbally addressed His appointed servant Moses. The verse certifies that the detailed instructions about sacrificial worship in the rest of the chapter carry divine authority, flow from God’s holy character, and are delivered through His chosen mediator for the good of His people. |
    |