Leviticus 17:11

For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for your souls upon the altar; for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul.

Study Bible

For the life of the flesh
The Hebrew word for "life" here is "nephesh," which can also mean "soul" or "being." This word emphasizes the intrinsic connection between life and the physical body, or "flesh" ("basar" in Hebrew). In the ancient Near Eastern context, life was understood as a holistic concept, where the physical and spiritual were intertwined. This phrase underscores the sanctity of life as ordained by God, reminding us that life is a divine gift, sustained by His will.

is in the blood
The Hebrew term "dam" for "blood" is central to the sacrificial system in the Old Testament. Blood symbolizes life itself, as it is the vital fluid that sustains the body. In ancient Israel, blood was not merely a physical substance but a sacred element that represented the essence of life. This understanding is foundational to the sacrificial practices, where blood is seen as the means of atonement and purification.

and I have given it to you on the altar
The phrase "I have given" indicates divine provision and authority. The altar, "mizbeach" in Hebrew, was the designated place for sacrifices, symbolizing God's presence and the meeting point between the divine and human realms. This provision of blood on the altar signifies God's initiative in establishing a means for reconciliation and communion with His people.

to make atonement for your souls
The Hebrew word for "atonement" is "kaphar," which means to cover or to make reconciliation. This concept is central to the sacrificial system, where the shedding of blood serves as a covering for sin, allowing for the restoration of the relationship between God and humanity. The "soul" or "nephesh" here emphasizes the depth of atonement, addressing the spiritual and moral aspects of human existence.

for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul
This reiteration highlights the unique role of blood in the atonement process. The sacrificial system foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood was shed for the redemption of humanity. In the New Testament, this concept is fulfilled in Christ's atoning work on the cross, where His blood becomes the means of eternal reconciliation with God. This verse, therefore, points to the profound theological truth that life, sacrifice, and redemption are intricately connected through the divine provision of blood.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws in Leviticus were given as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence, where sacrifices were made, including those involving blood for atonement.

4. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing the sacrifices and rituals as outlined in Leviticus.

5. Sacrificial System
The divinely instituted method for atonement and worship, central to the religious life of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Life
The verse underscores the sacredness of life, as represented by blood. In our lives, we should honor and respect the life God has given us and others.

Atonement and Reconciliation
Blood is central to atonement, symbolizing the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God. Reflect on the gravity of sin and the grace offered through Christ's sacrifice.

The Fulfillment in Christ
The sacrificial system points to Jesus, whose blood was shed for the ultimate atonement. Embrace the completeness of His sacrifice and live in the freedom it provides.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were called to follow God's laws regarding sacrifices. Similarly, we are called to live in obedience to God's Word, understanding its purpose and significance.

The Role of Faith
Just as the Israelites had to trust in the sacrificial system for atonement, we are called to have faith in Christ's sacrifice for our salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of life being in the blood influence your understanding of the value God places on life?

2. In what ways does the sacrificial system in Leviticus point to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principle of atonement in our daily lives, particularly in our relationships with others?

4. What does it mean to live in obedience to God's commands today, and how can we ensure our actions align with His will?

5. How does understanding the role of faith in the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance your faith in Christ's atoning work?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:4
This verse establishes the sanctity of blood, prohibiting the consumption of blood because it represents life.

Hebrews 9:22
This New Testament verse echoes the principle that without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

John 6:53-56
Jesus speaks of His blood as true drink, symbolizing the new covenant and eternal life through His sacrifice.

Romans 3:25
Paul discusses Jesus as the propitiation by His blood, received by faith, highlighting the fulfillment of the atonement principle in Christ.