Leviticus 17:13

And if any Israelite or foreigner living among them hunts down a wild animal or bird that may be eaten, he must drain its blood and cover it with dirt.

Study Bible

And if any Israelite or foreigner living among them
This phrase establishes the inclusivity of the law, applying not only to native Israelites but also to foreigners residing with them. This reflects the broader biblical principle that God's laws were meant to guide all who lived within the community of Israel, emphasizing the unity and holiness required of God's people. The inclusion of foreigners highlights the universal nature of God's covenant and foreshadows the New Testament teaching that salvation through Christ is available to all, Jew and Gentile alike (Galatians 3:28).

hunts down a wild animal or bird that may be eaten
The context here is the provision of food through hunting, which was a common practice in ancient times. The specification of "wild animal or bird that may be eaten" aligns with the dietary laws outlined in Leviticus 11, which distinguish between clean and unclean animals. This reflects the importance of maintaining ritual purity and obedience to God's commands regarding food, which were integral to the Israelites' identity and relationship with God.

he must drain its blood
The command to drain the blood underscores the biblical principle that life is in the blood (Leviticus 17:11). This reflects the sanctity of life and the belief that blood, as the life force, belongs to God alone. The draining of blood before consumption is a practice that sets the Israelites apart from surrounding nations and their pagan rituals, which often involved consuming blood. This practice also prefigures the sacrificial system and ultimately points to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood was shed for the atonement of sin (Hebrews 9:22).

and cover it with dirt
Covering the blood with dirt is an act of respect and reverence for the life that was taken. This practice acknowledges God's sovereignty over life and death and serves as a reminder of the gravity of taking a life, even for sustenance. It also symbolizes the return of life to the earth, from which humanity was created (Genesis 2:7). This act of covering the blood can be seen as a precursor to the burial of Christ, who was laid in a tomb, symbolizing the covering of sin through His sacrifice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. House of Israel
Refers to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel, who are the chosen people of God. This term encompasses all the tribes of Israel.

2. Foreigner Living Among Them
Non-Israelites who reside within the community of Israel. This inclusion highlights the universality of God's laws and their application to all who dwell among His people.

3. Hunting and Catching
The act of pursuing and capturing animals or birds for food. This was a common practice for sustenance in ancient times.

4. Blood
Considered sacred and representative of life. The command to drain and cover the blood underscores its significance and the respect it demands.

5. Covering with Dirt
A symbolic act of respect and acknowledgment of the sanctity of life, as well as obedience to God's command.

Teaching Points

Respect for Life
The command to drain and cover the blood teaches us to respect the life God has created. It reminds us that life is sacred and should be treated with reverence.

Obedience to God's Commands
This passage emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions, even in seemingly mundane activities like hunting. It calls us to live in obedience in all areas of life.

Inclusivity of God's Laws
The inclusion of foreigners in this command shows that God's laws are not just for a select group but for all who choose to live under His covenant. It encourages us to embrace inclusivity in our faith communities.

Symbolism of Blood
Understanding the symbolism of blood in the Bible helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's sacrifice. It calls us to reflect on the cost of our redemption and live lives worthy of that sacrifice.

Environmental Stewardship
The act of covering the blood with dirt can be seen as an early form of environmental respect, reminding us of our responsibility to care for God's creation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to drain and cover the blood in Leviticus 17:13 reflect the value God places on life?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience from this passage to our daily lives?

3. How does the inclusion of foreigners in this command challenge us to think about inclusivity in our own faith communities?

4. What connections can you draw between the symbolism of blood in Leviticus 17:13 and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

5. How can the act of covering the blood with dirt inspire us to be better stewards of the environment today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:4
This verse establishes the prohibition against consuming blood, emphasizing its sacredness as the life force of creatures.

Acts 15:20
The early church's decision to instruct Gentile believers to abstain from blood, showing continuity in the respect for this command.

Hebrews 9:22
Discusses the necessity of blood for atonement, highlighting its spiritual significance in the context of sacrifice and forgiveness.