Leviticus 17:14

For the life of all flesh is its blood. Therefore I have told the Israelites, 'You must not eat the blood of any living thing, because the life of all flesh is its blood; whoever eats it must be cut off.'

Study Bible

For the life of all flesh is its blood
The Hebrew word for "life" is "nephesh," which can also mean soul or living being. This phrase underscores the intrinsic connection between life and blood, a concept deeply rooted in ancient Hebrew understanding. Blood is seen as the vital force that sustains life, a belief that aligns with the physiological reality that blood circulates oxygen and nutrients essential for life. This connection is not merely biological but also spiritual, as blood is considered sacred and representative of life given by God.

Therefore I have said to the Israelites
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority behind the command. The Israelites are reminded that these instructions come directly from God, reinforcing the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people. The use of "I have said" indicates a direct communication from God, highlighting the importance of obedience to His commands as an act of faith and reverence.

‘You must not eat the blood of any creature
The prohibition against consuming blood is a recurring theme in the Mosaic Law, reflecting the sanctity of life. In the ancient Near Eastern context, blood was often used in pagan rituals, and this command serves to set the Israelites apart from surrounding nations. By abstaining from blood, the Israelites demonstrate their commitment to God's holiness and their distinct identity as His people.

because the life of every creature is its blood
Reiterating the earlier statement, this phrase reinforces the theological principle that life is sacred and belongs to God. The repetition serves to emphasize the seriousness of the command and the need for the Israelites to respect the divine order established by God. It also reflects a broader biblical theme that life is a gift from God and should be treated with reverence.

whoever eats it must be cut off.’
The phrase "must be cut off" indicates a severe consequence for disobedience. In the Hebrew context, being "cut off" could mean excommunication from the community or even death, depending on the severity of the offense. This underscores the gravity of the command and the importance of maintaining purity and obedience within the community. It serves as a deterrent against violating God's laws and highlights the communal responsibility to uphold God's standards.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws of Leviticus were given. They were to be set apart as holy and distinct from other nations.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the laws and commandments to the Israelites.

3. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where sacrifices were made, and God's presence dwelt among His people.

4. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received the laws of Leviticus during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

5. The Sacrificial System
The system of offerings and sacrifices instituted by God, which included specific instructions about the handling of blood.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Life
The prohibition against consuming blood underscores the sanctity of life, as blood represents life itself. This principle calls us to respect and honor life in all its forms.

Obedience to God's Commands
The command not to consume blood was a test of obedience for the Israelites. Similarly, we are called to obey God's commands, even when we may not fully understand their purpose.

The Symbolism of Blood in Atonement
Blood plays a crucial role in the sacrificial system as a means of atonement. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood was shed for the forgiveness of sins.

Holiness and Distinction
The dietary laws, including the prohibition of blood, set the Israelites apart as God's holy people. As Christians, we are called to live distinct and holy lives, reflecting God's character.

Continuity of God's Moral Law
The prohibition against consuming blood is reiterated in the New Testament, demonstrating the continuity of God's moral law and its relevance for believers today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against consuming blood in Leviticus 17:14 reflect the value God places on life?

2. In what ways does the command to abstain from blood consumption challenge us to consider our own obedience to God's instructions?

3. How does the symbolism of blood in the Old Testament sacrificial system point to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out the principle of holiness and distinction in our daily lives?

5. How does the continuity of the prohibition against consuming blood from the Old Testament to the New Testament inform our understanding of God's unchanging moral law?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

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

Hebrews 9:22
This verse explains the significance of blood in the context of atonement and forgiveness, emphasizing its sacred role in the sacrificial system.