Then
This word indicates a continuation of the narrative and instructions given to Moses. It connects the previous chapters, which dealt with various laws and rituals, to the new set of instructions that follow. It suggests a sequence in the divine revelation and the unfolding of God's covenantal laws to Israel.

the LORD
The use of "the LORD" refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God revealed to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:14). This emphasizes the personal and relational aspect of God with His people, Israel. It underscores His authority and the divine origin of the laws being given.

said
This highlights the direct communication between God and Moses, a common theme in the Pentateuch. It underscores the prophetic role of Moses as the mediator between God and the Israelites. The phrase "the LORD said" is used frequently in the Torah to introduce divine commands and instructions.

to Moses
Moses is the central human figure in the Pentateuch, chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and to receive the Law on their behalf. His role as a prophet and leader is crucial, as he acts as the intermediary through whom God communicates His will to the people. Moses' leadership and faithfulness are often seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate mediator between God and humanity (Hebrews 3:1-6).

This verse sets the stage for the instructions that follow in Leviticus 17, which focus on the proper place and manner of sacrifices, emphasizing the holiness and distinctiveness of Israel's worship practices.

Speak to Aaron, his sons, and all the Israelites
This directive emphasizes the importance of communication within the community of Israel. Aaron, as the high priest, and his sons, who serve as priests, are central figures in the religious life of Israel. The inclusion of "all the Israelites" indicates that the message is not just for the priestly class but for the entire nation. This reflects the communal nature of the covenant relationship with God, where both leaders and laypeople are accountable. The role of Aaron and his sons is crucial, as they are mediators between God and the people, a role that foreshadows the mediating work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16).

and tell them this is what the LORD has commanded:
The phrase underscores the divine authority behind the instructions. The LORD's commands are not mere suggestions but are binding and authoritative. This reflects the covenantal relationship where God, as the sovereign, sets the terms. The use of "commanded" highlights the seriousness and non-negotiable nature of the instructions. This is consistent with the broader biblical theme of obedience to God's word, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:4-9, where the Israelites are instructed to diligently follow God's commands. The emphasis on divine command also points to the prophetic tradition, where prophets often begin their messages with "Thus says the LORD," indicating that they speak with God's authority.

Anyone from the house of Israel
This phrase refers to the entire community of Israelites, emphasizing the collective responsibility and covenant relationship they have with God. The "house of Israel" signifies not just individuals but the nation as a whole, bound by the laws given through Moses. This collective identity is crucial in understanding the communal nature of worship and obedience in the Old Testament. It also foreshadows the New Testament concept of the Church as the body of Christ, a collective entity.

who slaughters an ox, a lamb, or a goat
These animals were commonly used in sacrificial offerings, each having specific roles in the sacrificial system. The ox, lamb, and goat were integral to various offerings, including sin offerings, peace offerings, and burnt offerings. The act of slaughtering these animals was not merely a ritual but a deeply symbolic act representing atonement, thanksgiving, and fellowship with God. This prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

in the camp or outside of it
This phrase highlights the geographical and ritual boundaries set by God for the Israelites. The camp represents the organized community of Israel during their wilderness journey, a place where God's presence dwelt among them in the Tabernacle. Sacrifices were to be made at the Tabernacle, emphasizing the centrality of God's presence and the importance of proper worship. Offering sacrifices outside the designated area could lead to idolatry or syncretism, which were constant threats to Israel's faithfulness. This underscores the importance of worshiping God according to His instructions, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture, including in the New Testament teachings on worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

instead of bringing it to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
This phrase emphasizes the centralization of worship and sacrifice in ancient Israel. The Tent of Meeting, or Tabernacle, was the designated place for sacrifices, symbolizing God's presence among His people. This requirement prevented unauthorized altars and pagan practices, ensuring that worship remained pure and focused on Yahweh. The Tent of Meeting was a portable sanctuary used during the Israelites' wilderness journey, highlighting the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

to present it as an offering to the LORD
Offerings were a vital part of Israelite worship, serving as expressions of devotion, atonement, and thanksgiving. Presenting offerings to the LORD at the designated place underscored the covenant relationship between God and Israel. This act was not merely ritualistic but a demonstration of faith and obedience. The offerings pointed to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the sacrificial system through His death on the cross.

before His tabernacle
The tabernacle was the dwelling place of God among His people, a sacred space where heaven and earth met. Offering sacrifices before the tabernacle signified approaching God with reverence and humility. This practice foreshadowed the coming of Christ, who is the true tabernacle (John 1:14), providing believers direct access to God through His atoning work.

that man shall incur bloodguilt
Bloodguilt refers to the responsibility for shedding innocent blood, a serious offense in the biblical context. In this case, failing to bring a sacrifice to the designated place was equated with shedding blood unlawfully, highlighting the gravity of disobedience. This underscores the sanctity of life and the seriousness of sin, which requires atonement. The concept of bloodguilt is further explored in the New Testament, where Christ's blood provides the ultimate atonement for sin (Hebrews 9:22).

He has shed blood
This phrase indicates that improper sacrifice is tantamount to murder, as it disregards God's commands and the sanctity of life. The shedding of blood was a significant act, symbolizing the life force and requiring careful adherence to God's instructions. This prefigures the sacrificial death of Christ, whose blood was shed for the redemption of humanity, fulfilling the requirements of the law.

and must be cut off from among his people
Being "cut off" signifies severe consequences, often implying death or excommunication from the community. This punishment served as a deterrent against disobedience and maintained the holiness of the community. It reflects the seriousness of sin and the need for purity among God's people. In the New Testament, the concept of being cut off is transformed through Christ, who offers reconciliation and restoration to those who repent and believe (Romans 11:22-23).

For this reason the Israelites will bring to the LORD the sacrifices
This phrase indicates a shift in sacrificial practice, emphasizing the centralization of worship. The Israelites were to bring their sacrifices to a designated place, underscoring the importance of worshiping God according to His instructions. This centralization prefigures the New Testament teaching that worship must be in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

they have been offering in the open fields.
Previously, sacrifices were made in various locations, which could lead to idolatrous practices. The open fields symbolize a lack of order and potential for syncretism with pagan rituals. This command seeks to prevent such practices, ensuring that worship remains pure and directed solely to Yahweh.

They are to bring them to the priest
The role of the priest is highlighted here, serving as a mediator between God and the people. This foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who mediates the new covenant (Hebrews 4:14-16). The priest's involvement ensures that the sacrifices are conducted according to divine law.

at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, or Tabernacle, was the central place of worship and symbolized God's presence among His people. Bringing sacrifices here signifies approaching God in the manner He prescribed. This location is a type of Christ, who is the true meeting place between God and humanity (John 1:14).

and offer them as sacrifices of peace offerings to the LORD.
Peace offerings were expressions of thanksgiving and fellowship with God. They symbolize reconciliation and communion, pointing to the peace made through Christ's sacrifice (Ephesians 2:14-16). These offerings remind believers of the importance of gratitude and maintaining a right relationship with God.

The priest will then splatter the blood on the altar of the LORD
In the sacrificial system, the act of splattering blood on the altar was central to atonement and purification rituals. Blood, representing life, was a key element in the covenant between God and Israel. This act symbolized the offering of life to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and the need for atonement. The altar, located in the Tabernacle, was the designated place for sacrifices, emphasizing the holiness and order of worship. This practice foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood was shed for the atonement of humanity's sins, as seen in Hebrews 9:22.

at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. It was a sacred space where God communicated with Moses and the priests. The entrance was significant as it was the point of transition from the common to the holy. This location underscores the accessibility of God to His people, yet also the need for mediation through the priesthood. The Tent of Meeting prefigures Christ, who is the mediator between God and humanity, as described in 1 Timothy 2:5.

and burn the fat as a pleasing aroma to the LORD
Burning the fat of the sacrifice was an act of offering the best parts to God, symbolizing the dedication and surrender of the worshiper. The "pleasing aroma" signifies God's acceptance of the sacrifice, indicating that the offering was made in accordance with His commands. This concept of a pleasing aroma is echoed in Ephesians 5:2, where Christ's sacrificial love is described as a fragrant offering to God. The burning of the fat also highlights the importance of obedience and reverence in worship, as God desires offerings made with a pure heart.

They must no longer offer their sacrifices
This command signifies a shift from previous practices where sacrifices might have been made outside the designated place of worship. The Israelites were instructed to bring their offerings to the tabernacle, emphasizing the centralization of worship and the importance of following God's ordained methods. This reflects the broader biblical theme of obedience to God's commands and the rejection of syncretism.

to the goat demons
The term "goat demons" refers to pagan deities or spirits that were believed to inhabit the wilderness. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, these entities were often associated with fertility and chaos. The Israelites were warned against engaging in idolatrous practices that were common among surrounding nations. This highlights the biblical theme of spiritual purity and the rejection of idolatry, as seen in the first two commandments (Exodus 20:3-4).

to which they have prostituted themselves
The use of the term "prostituted" metaphorically describes Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idolatry. This language is consistent with prophetic literature, such as Hosea, where idolatry is likened to adultery. It underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where idolatry is seen as a breach of faithfulness.

This will be a permanent statute for them
The phrase indicates the enduring nature of this command. It was not a temporary measure but a lasting ordinance meant to guide the Israelites in their worship practices. This reflects the unchanging nature of God's standards and the importance of maintaining holiness and purity in worship.

for the generations to come
This emphasizes the transgenerational aspect of God's commandments. The instruction was not only for the immediate audience but for all future descendants. It underscores the importance of teaching and preserving God's laws across generations, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:6-7, where parents are instructed to teach God's commands to their children.

Tell them that if anyone from the house of Israel
This phrase establishes the audience as the Israelites, God's chosen people, who were delivered from Egypt and given the Law at Mount Sinai. The "house of Israel" refers to the entire community of Israelites, emphasizing their collective identity and responsibility under the covenant with God. This covenant relationship is foundational, as seen in Exodus 19:5-6, where God calls Israel a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation."

or any foreigner living among them
The inclusion of "any foreigner" highlights the presence of non-Israelites within the community, often referred to as "sojourners" or "strangers." This reflects the inclusive nature of God's laws, which applied not only to ethnic Israelites but also to those who chose to live among them and worship Yahweh. This provision underscores the universal scope of God's covenant, as seen in passages like Isaiah 56:6-7, which speaks of foreigners joining themselves to the Lord.

offers a burnt offering or a sacrifice
Burnt offerings and sacrifices were central to Israelite worship, serving as means of atonement and expressions of devotion to God. The burnt offering, or "olah," was entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing complete surrender to God (Leviticus 1). Sacrifices, in general, were acts of worship that maintained the covenant relationship between God and His people. The sacrificial system foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself once for all (Hebrews 10:10).

but does not bring it to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
This phrase emphasizes the centralization of worship in ancient Israel. The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was the designated place for sacrifices, symbolizing God's presence among His people. This requirement prevented unauthorized altars and pagan practices. The Tent of Meeting was a portable sanctuary used during the Israelites' wilderness journey, highlighting the importance of communal worship and obedience to God's instructions.

to sacrifice it to the LORD
Sacrifices were a vital part of Israelite worship, serving as a means of atonement and fellowship with God. The act of sacrificing to the LORD at the designated place underscored the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It was a reminder of God's holiness and the need for purity in worship. This practice foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the sacrificial system through His death on the cross.

that man must be cut off from his people
Being "cut off" signifies a severe consequence, often interpreted as excommunication or even death. This punishment reflects the seriousness of disobedience and the need to maintain the purity and unity of the community. It underscores the importance of adhering to God's commands and the communal responsibility to uphold the covenant. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where church discipline is practiced to maintain the integrity of the faith community (e.g., 1 Corinthians 5:13).

If anyone from the house of Israel or a foreigner living among them
This phrase establishes the inclusivity of the command, applying not only to the Israelites but also to any foreigners residing with them. This reflects the broader covenant community and the expectation that all who live within Israel's borders adhere to God's laws. The presence of foreigners in Israel is acknowledged throughout the Old Testament, and they were often expected to follow certain laws, especially those related to worship and purity (Exodus 12:49).

eats any blood
The prohibition against consuming blood is a significant aspect of the Mosaic Law. Blood is considered sacred because it represents life (Leviticus 17:11). This command underscores the sanctity of life and the importance of respecting God's creation. The prohibition is reiterated in the New Testament, where the early church, in Acts 15:20, instructs Gentile believers to abstain from blood, showing its continued relevance.

I will set My face against that person
This phrase indicates God's active opposition to those who disobey this command. Setting His face against someone implies divine judgment and disfavor. In biblical terms, God's face represents His presence and blessing (Numbers 6:24-26). Therefore, to have His face set against someone is to be deprived of His favor and protection.

and cut him off from among his people
Being "cut off" can imply either a divine or communal act of exclusion. It often means death or being ostracized from the community, which in ancient Israel was a severe punishment. This reflects the seriousness of the offense and the need to maintain the holiness and purity of the community. The concept of being cut off is seen in other contexts, such as in Genesis 17:14 regarding the covenant of circumcision, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands.

For the life of the flesh is in the blood
This phrase emphasizes the fundamental belief that blood is the essence of life. In ancient Hebrew culture, blood was seen as the life force of a being, a concept that is echoed in Genesis 9:4, where God commands Noah not to consume blood because it represents life. This understanding underscores the sacredness of blood in sacrificial practices, as it symbolizes the life that is offered to God.

and I have given it to you to make atonement for your souls upon the altar
Here, God declares that He has provided blood as a means for atonement, highlighting His sovereignty and grace. The altar, central to Israelite worship, was the place where sacrifices were made to reconcile humanity with God. This practice foreshadows the ultimate atonement through Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice on the cross fulfills the need for blood atonement once and for all, as seen in Hebrews 9:12-14.

for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul
This statement reinforces the necessity of blood for atonement, a principle that permeates the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. The Hebrew word for atonement, "kaphar," means to cover or to reconcile, indicating that blood serves as a covering for sin. This concept is prophetically linked to the New Testament, where Christ's blood is described as the means of eternal redemption (Ephesians 1:7). The sacrificial system, with its emphasis on blood, serves as a type of Christ, pointing to His ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity.

Therefore I say to the Israelites
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of the instruction. The Israelites, as God's chosen people, were given specific laws to set them apart from other nations. This command is part of the Holiness Code, which outlines how the Israelites are to live in a way that reflects God's holiness. The use of "therefore" connects this command to the preceding verses, which discuss the sanctity of blood as it is used for atonement on the altar.

‘None of you may eat blood
The prohibition against consuming blood is rooted in the belief that life is in the blood (Leviticus 17:11). This reflects a deep respect for life and acknowledges God's sovereignty over it. Blood was considered sacred because it was used in sacrificial rituals to atone for sin. This command also distinguishes the Israelites from surrounding pagan cultures, which often consumed blood in their religious practices. The prohibition is reiterated in the New Testament, in Acts 15:20, where the apostles instruct Gentile believers to abstain from blood, showing its continued importance.

nor may any foreigner living among you eat blood.
This extension of the command to foreigners living among the Israelites underscores the universal application of God's laws within the community. It highlights the inclusivity of God's covenant, inviting non-Israelites to participate in the holiness and purity required by God. This also served as a witness to the nations, demonstrating the distinctiveness of Israel's worship and ethical standards. The inclusion of foreigners reflects the broader biblical theme of God's concern for all nations, as seen in the promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through him (Genesis 12:3).

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.

For the life of all flesh is its blood.
This phrase emphasizes the intrinsic connection between life and blood, a concept deeply rooted in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Blood was seen as the life force, a belief that underscores many of the sacrificial practices in the Old Testament. In Genesis 9:4, God commands Noah not to consume blood, establishing a precedent for this prohibition. Theologically, this connection between life and blood foreshadows the sacrificial system and ultimately points to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood is said to bring eternal life (Hebrews 9:22).

Therefore I have told the Israelites,
God's direct communication with the Israelites highlights the covenant relationship between Him and His chosen people. This command is part of the Holiness Code, a section of Leviticus (chapters 17-26) that outlines how the Israelites are to live as a holy nation. The specificity of the audience underscores the unique identity and calling of Israel among the nations, as seen in Exodus 19:5-6.

‘You must not eat the blood of any living thing,
This prohibition is not only a dietary restriction but also a spiritual mandate. It distinguishes the Israelites from surrounding nations, many of whom practiced blood consumption in their rituals. The command reflects a respect for life and the sanctity of blood, which is reserved for atonement purposes (Leviticus 17:11). This restriction is reiterated in the New Testament, where the apostles instruct Gentile believers to abstain from blood (Acts 15:20).

because the life of all flesh is its blood;
Repetition of this principle reinforces its importance. The life-blood connection is central to understanding the sacrificial system, where blood is used for atonement, symbolizing the life given in place of another. This concept is fulfilled in the New Testament, where Christ's blood is described as the means of atonement for sin (Romans 3:25).

whoever eats it must be cut off.’
The severe consequence of being "cut off" indicates the gravity of this command. In the context of ancient Israel, being cut off could mean excommunication from the community or divine judgment. This underscores the holiness required of God's people and the seriousness of maintaining purity. The phrase also points to the ultimate separation from God that sin causes, a theme that is resolved through the reconciliation offered by Christ's sacrifice (Colossians 1:20).

And any person, whether native or foreigner
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of God's laws, applying to both Israelites and non-Israelites living among them. It reflects the universal nature of God's holiness and the expectation that all within the community adhere to His standards. This inclusivity foreshadows the New Testament teaching that salvation through Christ is available to all, Jew and Gentile alike (Galatians 3:28).

who eats anything found dead or mauled by wild beasts
The consumption of animals that died naturally or were killed by other animals was prohibited due to health concerns and ritual impurity. Such animals were not slaughtered according to the prescribed methods, making them unfit for consumption. This law underscores the importance of maintaining purity and avoiding defilement, which is a recurring theme in Leviticus. It also highlights the need for discernment in what is consumed, a principle echoed in the New Testament regarding spiritual and moral discernment (Philippians 1:9-10).

must wash his clothes and bathe with water
The requirement to wash clothes and bathe signifies a ritual cleansing process necessary to restore purity. Water is a symbol of purification throughout Scripture, pointing to the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice (Ephesians 5:26). This act of washing prefigures the baptismal rite in Christianity, symbolizing the washing away of sin and the believer's new life in Christ (Acts 22:16).

and he will be unclean until evening
The state of uncleanness until evening indicates a temporary condition that can be remedied through prescribed actions. This reflects the concept of time-bound impurity, which contrasts with the eternal cleansing offered through Jesus' atonement. The evening marks a new day in the Jewish calendar, symbolizing renewal and the hope of restoration, akin to the new life believers have in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

then he will be clean
The transition from unclean to clean signifies restoration and acceptance back into the community. It illustrates God's provision for reconciliation and the importance of obedience to His commands. This cleansing process is a type of the ultimate cleansing from sin provided by Jesus, who makes believers clean through His blood (1 John 1:7). The assurance of being made clean points to the hope and promise of eternal life with God.

But if he does not wash his clothes and bathe himself
This phrase emphasizes the importance of ritual purity in the Israelite community. Washing clothes and bathing were symbolic acts of cleansing from impurity, often associated with sin or contact with unclean things. In the broader context of Leviticus, these acts were necessary to maintain holiness and separation from the surrounding pagan cultures. The requirement for washing and bathing can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament concept of baptism, which symbolizes spiritual cleansing and renewal (Acts 22:16). The emphasis on physical cleanliness reflects the deeper spiritual truth of needing to be cleansed from sin.

then he shall bear his iniquity.
This phrase indicates personal responsibility for sin and its consequences. In the Old Testament, bearing one's iniquity often meant facing the penalty for sin, which could include exclusion from the community or even death, depending on the severity of the transgression. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where individuals are accountable for their actions (Romans 14:12). Theologically, this points to the need for atonement and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who bore the iniquity of humanity on the cross (Isaiah 53:6). The phrase underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of adhering to God's commands to maintain a right relationship with Him.