Leviticus 17:10

If anyone from the house of Israel or a foreigner living among them eats any blood, I will set My face against that person and cut him off from among his people.

Study Bible

If anyone from the house of Israel
This phrase establishes the primary audience of the command: the Israelites, God's chosen people. The "house of Israel" refers to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel, who were delivered from Egypt and given the Law at Mount Sinai. This covenantal relationship is foundational, as it sets the Israelites apart as a holy nation (Exodus 19:5-6). The Hebrew word for "house" (בֵּית, bayit) implies not just a physical dwelling but a familial and communal identity, emphasizing the collective responsibility of the Israelites to uphold God's commandments.

or any foreigner living among them
The inclusion of "any foreigner" (גֵּר, ger) highlights the universality of God's laws and the inclusivity of His covenant community. In ancient Israel, foreigners who lived among the Israelites were expected to adhere to certain laws, especially those related to worship and purity. This reflects God's desire for holiness and order within the community, regardless of ethnic origin. It also foreshadows the New Testament teaching that God's salvation is available to all people, Jew and Gentile alike (Galatians 3:28).

eats any blood
The prohibition against consuming blood is a recurring theme in the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 3:17, 7:26-27). Blood is considered sacred because it represents life (Leviticus 17:11). The Hebrew word for blood (דָּם, dam) is often associated with life and atonement. By forbidding the consumption of blood, God underscores the sanctity of life and the importance of respecting His creation. This command also serves as a reminder of the sacrificial system, where blood was used for atonement, pointing ultimately to the sacrifice of Christ, whose blood was shed for the remission of sins (Hebrews 9:22).

I will set My face against that person
This phrase indicates divine disapproval and impending judgment. The expression "set My face against" (פָּנַי בְּנֶגֶד, panai b'neged) conveys a sense of active opposition from God. In the biblical context, God's face represents His presence and favor. To have God's face set against someone is to be deprived of His blessing and protection. This warning serves as a serious reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of living in accordance with God's commands.

and cut him off from his people
The consequence of being "cut off" (כָּרַת, karat) is severe, implying both physical and spiritual separation from the community. This could mean death or excommunication, reflecting the gravity of the offense. In the ancient Near Eastern context, being cut off from one's people was a fate worse than death, as it meant losing one's identity and inheritance. This underscores the seriousness with which God views the violation of His laws and the need for His people to maintain purity and holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. House of Israel
Refers to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel, who are the chosen people of God. They are the primary recipients of the laws given in Leviticus.

2. Foreigner Living Among Them
Non-Israelites who resided with the Israelites. This inclusion shows that God's laws were meant to be observed by all within the community, not just ethnic Israelites.

3. God
The speaker in this verse, emphasizing His authority and the seriousness of the commandment. God is portrayed as the enforcer of His covenant laws.

4. Eating Blood
A prohibited act in the Mosaic Law. Blood was considered sacred as it represents life, and consuming it was a violation of God's commandments.

5. Cut Off from His People
A severe consequence indicating excommunication or divine judgment, reflecting the seriousness of the offense.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Life
Blood symbolizes life, and respecting this commandment underscores the value God places on life. We are called to honor life in all its forms.

Obedience to God's Commands
This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's laws, even when they may not align with cultural practices or personal preferences.

Inclusivity of God's Laws
The inclusion of foreigners shows that God's laws are universal and meant for all who choose to follow Him, emphasizing the unity and holiness of the community.

Consequences of Disobedience
The severe consequence of being cut off serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and alignment with God's will.

Holiness and Distinction
God's people are called to be distinct from the surrounding nations, and adherence to His laws is a way to maintain that distinction.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the prohibition against eating blood teach us about the value God places on life, and how can we apply this principle in our daily lives?

2. How does the inclusion of foreigners in this commandment reflect God's desire for inclusivity and unity among His people?

3. In what ways does the command to abstain from blood consumption connect to the broader biblical theme of holiness and being set apart?

4. How can understanding the consequences of disobedience in this passage help us in making choices that align with God's will today?

5. How does the reaffirmation of this commandment in the New Testament (Acts 15:20) influence our understanding of its relevance for Christians today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:4
This verse establishes the prohibition against consuming blood, given to Noah and his descendants, indicating that this command predates the Mosaic Law.

Acts 15:20
The early church, in the Jerusalem Council, reaffirms the prohibition against consuming blood for Gentile believers, showing its continued relevance.

Hebrews 9:22
Discusses the significance of blood in the context of atonement, highlighting its sacredness and why it was not to be consumed.