Leviticus 1:1

Then the LORD called to Moses and spoke to him from the Tent of Meeting, saying,

Study Bible

Then the LORD
The phrase "Then the LORD" introduces the divine origin of the instructions that follow. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His covenant relationship with Israel. The use of "LORD" underscores the authority and holiness of the commands that are about to be given. It reminds us that the laws in Leviticus are not merely human constructs but divine mandates from the Creator Himself.

called to Moses
The Hebrew verb for "called" is "qara," which implies a summoning or invitation. This calling is not just a casual conversation but a divine appointment. Moses, as the mediator between God and Israel, is being summoned to receive instructions that will guide the Israelites in their worship and daily living. This highlights the unique role of Moses as a prophet and leader, chosen by God to communicate His will to the people. It also reflects the personal nature of God's communication with His chosen servants.

and spoke to him
The act of speaking indicates a direct and clear communication from God to Moses. The Hebrew word "dabar" is used here, which means to speak or declare. This emphasizes the clarity and authority of God's message. It is a reminder that God is not distant or silent but actively involved in guiding His people. The spoken word of God is powerful and transformative, providing direction and purpose.

from the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting," also known as the Tabernacle, was the sacred space where God dwelled among His people. It was a portable sanctuary that accompanied the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The Tent of Meeting symbolizes God's desire to be present with His people and to establish a relationship with them. It serves as a precursor to the Temple in Jerusalem and ultimately points to the incarnation of Christ, where God dwells among humanity. The location of this communication underscores the holiness and reverence required in approaching God.

saying
The word "saying" introduces the specific instructions that God is about to give. It indicates that what follows is a direct quotation from God, carrying His authority and requiring obedience. This sets the stage for the detailed laws and regulations that will be outlined in the book of Leviticus. It serves as a reminder that God's words are not to be taken lightly but are to be received with reverence and a willingness to obey.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His relationship with Israel.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and to receive the Law.

3. Tent of Meeting (Tabernacle)
A sacred place where God’s presence dwelled among the Israelites, serving as the central place of worship and communication with God.

Teaching Points

God's Initiative in Communication
God takes the initiative to communicate with His people, demonstrating His desire for a relationship with them. This reminds us to be attentive to God's voice in our lives today.

The Role of Mediators
Moses serves as a mediator between God and the Israelites, foreshadowing Christ as our ultimate mediator. We are encouraged to rely on Christ for our relationship with God.

The Importance of Sacred Spaces
The Tent of Meeting was a designated place for encountering God. We should create and honor spaces in our lives dedicated to worship and communion with God.

Obedience to Divine Instructions
The instructions given to Moses were to be followed precisely. This teaches us the importance of obedience to God's Word in our daily lives.

God's Presence Among His People
The presence of God in the Tent of Meeting signifies His desire to dwell among His people. We are reminded of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit in believers today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the setting of the Tent of Meeting in Leviticus 1:1 enhance our understanding of God's desire to communicate with His people?

2. In what ways does Moses' role as a mediator in Leviticus 1:1 point to the work of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

3. How can we create "sacred spaces" in our own lives to foster a deeper relationship with God?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate obedience to God's instructions in our daily lives, as seen in the context of Leviticus 1:1?

5. How does the concept of God's presence in the Tent of Meeting encourage us in our understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
Describes the setting up of the Tabernacle, which is the Tent of Meeting mentioned in Leviticus 1:1. This connection highlights the continuity of God's instructions and presence with His people.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the Tabernacle and the sacrificial system, pointing to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of these Old Testament practices.

Numbers 7
Provides additional context on the role of the Tent of Meeting as a place where God communicated with Moses, emphasizing the importance of divine revelation.