What is the meaning of Leviticus 24:13? Then • The little word “Then” anchors the statement in its narrative flow. It follows the report that “the Israelites brought a man who had cursed … to Moses” (Leviticus 24:11–12). • The sequence shows that God’s guidance comes after His people pause to seek Him. Compare Exodus 33:8–11, where Moses meets with God after a question arises. • “Then” underlines continuity: God has been speaking throughout Leviticus (e.g., 1:1; 18:1; 23:1), and He does so again here, reinforcing His ongoing involvement. The LORD • The covenant name “the LORD” (YHWH) reminds us that the speaker is the God who delivered Israel from Egypt (Exodus 20:2) and who alone has the right to define holiness (Leviticus 19:2). • His character is consistent—merciful yet just (Exodus 34:6-7). This balance shapes the coming ruling about blasphemy (Leviticus 24:14-16). • Because the directive comes from the LORD, it carries absolute authority, echoing sayings like “The LORD spoke to Moses, saying…” (Numbers 15:35). Said • God speaks intelligibly; He is not silent (Psalm 50:7; Hebrews 1:1-2). • His word provides clarity for situations human leaders cannot resolve on their own (cf. Numbers 27:5). • What He “said” will soon become written Scripture, showing the unity between spoken revelation and the enduring Word (Deuteronomy 31:24-26). To Moses • Moses is the appointed mediator (Exodus 3:10-12). God addresses him so that the people may receive instruction through an accredited servant (Exodus 19:9; Deuteronomy 34:10). • This reinforces biblical leadership: God speaks, and qualified leaders relay His will (Acts 7:37-38). • Moses’ reception and transmission of God’s word foreshadow the ultimate Mediator, Jesus Christ, who perfectly reveals the Father (John 1:17-18). summary Leviticus 24:13, though brief—“Then the LORD said to Moses”—is rich with meaning. It marks a decisive moment when God Himself intervenes, grounding the forthcoming judgment in His own holy authority. The sequence (“Then”) shows dependence on divine timing; the speaker (“the LORD”) guarantees perfect justice; the action (“said”) highlights the reliability of God’s verbal revelation; and the recipient (“to Moses”) underscores the ordained channel through which God guides His people. Together, these elements affirm that Scripture’s commands flow from the living, covenant-keeping God who still speaks, leads, and judges in righteousness. |
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