Leviticus 3:17

This is a permanent statute for the generations to come, wherever you live: You must not eat any fat or any blood."

Study Bible

This is a permanent statute
The phrase "permanent statute" in Hebrew is "חֻקַּת עוֹלָם" (chukat olam). The word "chukat" refers to a decree or ordinance, often one that is not fully explained or understood by human reasoning but is to be followed out of obedience to God. "Olam" signifies eternity or perpetuity, indicating that this command is not temporary but intended to last indefinitely. This reflects the unchanging nature of God's laws and His desire for His people to live in holiness and obedience across all generations.

for the generations to come
The Hebrew phrase "לְדֹרֹתֵיכֶם" (ledoroteichem) emphasizes the continuity and enduring relevance of God's commandments. It underscores the importance of teaching and passing down God's laws to future generations, ensuring that His statutes remain a central part of the community's life and identity. This highlights the communal and familial responsibility in maintaining faithfulness to God's covenant.

wherever you live
In Hebrew, "בְּכֹל מוֹשְׁבֹתֵיכֶם" (bechol moshvoteichem) means "in all your dwellings." This phrase indicates that the command is not limited to a specific location, such as the land of Israel, but applies universally to the Israelites wherever they reside. It underscores the idea that God's laws transcend geographical boundaries and are applicable in every context of life, reinforcing the omnipresence of God's authority.

You must not eat any fat
The prohibition against eating fat, "כָּל-חֵלֶב" (kol chelev), refers specifically to the fat of sacrificial animals, which was considered the best part and was to be offered to God on the altar. This command signifies the principle of giving God the best of what we have, acknowledging His sovereignty and provision. It also serves as a reminder of the sacredness of the offerings and the need to respect what is set apart for God.

or any blood
The command "וְכָל-דָּם" (vechol dam) prohibits the consumption of blood, which is reiterated throughout the Torah. Blood symbolizes life (Leviticus 17:11), and its consumption is forbidden as a recognition of the sanctity of life and the life-giving power of God. This prohibition also foreshadows the sacrificial system and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, whose blood was shed for the atonement of sins, emphasizing the sacredness and redemptive power of blood in God's covenantal relationship with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including the dietary laws in Leviticus.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God to whom the laws were given, including the prohibition against eating fat and blood.

3. Tabernacle
The place where sacrifices were made, and where the Israelites would have been reminded of these dietary laws.

4. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where they were to observe these statutes.

5. Priests
The mediators between God and the Israelites, responsible for teaching and enforcing the laws.

Teaching Points

Respect for God's Commands
The prohibition against eating fat and blood underscores the importance of obedience to God's laws, even when they may not be fully understood.

Symbolism of Blood
Blood represents life and atonement, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Respecting this commandment helps us appreciate the gravity of Christ's sacrifice.

Holiness and Distinction
These dietary laws set the Israelites apart from other nations, reminding us of our call to be distinct and holy in our conduct.

Gratitude for Provision
Recognizing God's provision in the sacrificial system and dietary laws should lead us to gratitude for His care and sustenance.

Continuity of God's Law
The reaffirmation of these laws in the New Testament shows the consistency of God's expectations and the timeless nature of His principles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against eating fat and blood in Leviticus 3:17 reflect God's character and His expectations for His people?

2. In what ways does the symbolism of blood in the Old Testament enhance our understanding of Jesus' sacrifice in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principle of being set apart, as seen in the dietary laws, to our lives today as Christians?

4. What are some modern-day practices or habits that might parallel the Israelites' temptation to disregard God's commands, and how can we guard against them?

5. How does understanding the continuity of God's law from the Old Testament to the New Testament impact our view of Scripture and its authority in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:4
This verse establishes the initial prohibition against consuming blood, given to Noah after the flood, highlighting the sacredness of life.

Acts 15:20
In the New Testament, the early church reaffirms the prohibition against consuming blood, showing continuity in God's expectations for His people.

1 Samuel 2:15-16
Illustrates the consequences of disregarding God's commands about fat, as Eli's sons are condemned for their greed and disrespect for the sacrificial system.

Hebrews 9:22
Discusses the significance of blood in the context of atonement, emphasizing its sacred role in the forgiveness of sins.