Leviticus 7:26

You must not eat the blood of any bird or animal in any of your dwellings.

Study Bible

You must not eat
This command is a direct imperative, emphasizing the seriousness of the prohibition. The Hebrew root for "eat" is "אָכַל" (akal), which means to consume or devour. In the ancient Near Eastern context, eating was not merely a physical act but a spiritual one, often associated with covenantal relationships. The prohibition against eating blood underscores the sanctity of life, as blood symbolizes life itself (Leviticus 17:11). This command reflects God's desire for His people to respect the life He has created and to maintain purity in their dietary practices.

the blood
The Hebrew word for "blood" is "דָּם" (dam). Blood is a powerful symbol throughout the Bible, representing life and atonement. In Levitical law, blood was used in sacrificial rituals to atone for sin, signifying its sacredness. The prohibition against consuming blood is a reminder of its role in the sacrificial system and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, whose blood was shed for the remission of sins (Hebrews 9:22). This commandment foreshadows the New Covenant, where believers are cleansed by the blood of Jesus, highlighting the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

of any bird or animal
This phrase extends the prohibition to all creatures, emphasizing the universality of the command. The Hebrew words for "bird" (עוֹף, oph) and "animal" (בְּהֵמָה, behemah) encompass all living creatures that the Israelites might consume. This comprehensive scope indicates that the sanctity of blood applies to all life forms, reinforcing the idea that life is a divine gift. Historically, this command set the Israelites apart from surrounding nations, many of whom consumed blood in their rituals, thus maintaining their distinct identity as God's chosen people.

in any of your dwellings
The term "dwellings" (מוֹשָׁב, moshav) refers to the places where the Israelites lived, whether in tents during their wilderness journey or in permanent homes in the Promised Land. This phrase indicates that the command is not limited to the tabernacle or temple but applies to everyday life. It underscores the principle that holiness is not confined to religious rituals but is to be a constant aspect of the believer's life. By adhering to this command in their homes, the Israelites were reminded of God's presence and their covenant relationship with Him, fostering a lifestyle of obedience and reverence.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, including the prohibition against consuming blood.

3. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites where sacrifices were made, and where the laws were taught and upheld.

4. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where they were to live according to God's laws, including dietary restrictions.

5. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were responsible for teaching and enforcing the laws, including those concerning dietary practices.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Blood
Blood is considered sacred because it represents life. In the sacrificial system, it was used for atonement, symbolizing the life given to cover sin.

Obedience to God's Commands
The prohibition against consuming blood is a call to obedience, reflecting a heart willing to follow God's instructions even in dietary matters.

Respect for Life
By abstaining from blood, believers are reminded of the value of life and the importance of respecting God's creation.

Continuity of God's Law
The command not to consume blood is consistent throughout Scripture, showing the unchanging nature of God's moral and spiritual principles.

Holiness in Daily Living
Observing dietary laws was a daily reminder for the Israelites to live set apart for God, a principle that applies to Christians in living distinctively holy lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against consuming blood in Leviticus 7:26 reflect the broader theme of holiness in the book of Leviticus?

2. In what ways does the command to abstain from blood connect to the concept of life and atonement in the Bible?

3. How can the principle of obedience to God's commands in dietary laws be applied to modern Christian living?

4. What are some practical ways Christians today can demonstrate respect for life, as symbolized by the prohibition against consuming blood?

5. How does the reaffirmation of this command in Acts 15:20 influence our understanding of the continuity of God's moral law for believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:4
This verse establishes the initial prohibition against consuming blood, given to Noah after the flood, indicating the longstanding nature of this command.

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

Hebrews 9:22
This verse highlights the significance of blood in the context of atonement, underscoring why it is set apart and not to be consumed.