Leviticus 22:15

The priests must not profane the sacred offerings that the Israelites present to the LORD

Study Bible

The priests
The Hebrew word for "priests" is "kohen," which refers to those set apart for the service of God in the tabernacle and later the temple. The role of the priest was crucial in maintaining the holiness and purity of the worship practices of Israel. They acted as mediators between God and the people, and their conduct was to reflect the sanctity of their office. Historically, the priesthood was established through Aaron and his descendants, emphasizing a lineage of holiness and dedication to God's service.

must not profane
The term "profane" comes from the Hebrew root "chalal," which means to defile or treat something sacred as common. In the context of Leviticus, profaning the sacred offerings would mean treating them with disrespect or failing to adhere to the strict guidelines God set for their handling. This command underscores the importance of reverence and the recognition of God's holiness in all aspects of worship. The priests were to uphold the sanctity of the offerings, ensuring that they were presented in a manner worthy of the Lord.

the sacred offerings
The Hebrew word for "sacred offerings" is "qodesh," which signifies something set apart for a holy purpose. These offerings were not merely ritualistic but were expressions of devotion, thanksgiving, and atonement. They symbolized the Israelites' relationship with God and their acknowledgment of His sovereignty. The offerings included various sacrifices, such as burnt offerings, grain offerings, and peace offerings, each with specific instructions and significance.

the Israelites present
The phrase "the Israelites present" highlights the communal aspect of worship in ancient Israel. The offerings were brought by the people, representing their collective faith and obedience to God's commandments. This act of presenting offerings was a tangible expression of their covenant relationship with God, acknowledging His provision and seeking His favor. It also served as a reminder of their identity as God's chosen people, set apart to live according to His statutes.

to the LORD
The name "LORD" in this context is the translation of the Hebrew "YHWH," the personal and covenantal name of God. It signifies His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. The offerings were directed to YHWH, emphasizing that worship was to be God-centered, focused on His glory and holiness. This phrase reminds believers of the ultimate purpose of worship: to honor and glorify God, recognizing His supreme authority and grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing the sacred duties in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. They were tasked with maintaining the holiness of the offerings presented to God.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were commanded to bring offerings to the LORD as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Sacred Offerings
These are the gifts and sacrifices brought by the Israelites to the LORD, which were to be handled with reverence and care by the priests.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, to whom the offerings are presented. He is the one who establishes the laws and commands regarding worship and offerings.

5. Tabernacle/Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where the priests performed their duties and where the offerings were presented.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Service
The priests were called to a high standard of holiness in their service. As believers, we are also called to serve God with integrity and reverence in all we do.

Respect for Sacred Things
Just as the priests were to treat the offerings with respect, we should approach our worship and service to God with a sense of reverence and awe.

Guarding Against Profanation
The warning against profaning the offerings serves as a reminder to guard our hearts and actions against anything that would dishonor God.

The Role of Leadership
Spiritual leaders have a responsibility to uphold the sanctity of worship and guide others in honoring God.

Christ as Our High Priest
Jesus, our perfect high priest, ensures that our offerings and worship are acceptable to God, bridging the gap between our imperfection and God's holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priests in Leviticus 22:15 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God remain holy and untainted?

3. How does the concept of holiness in Leviticus 22:15 connect with the New Testament teachings on living a holy life?

4. What are some modern-day "sacred offerings" that we present to God, and how can we avoid profaning them?

5. How does understanding Jesus as our high priest enhance our appreciation of the sacrificial system described in Leviticus?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter details the consecration of the priests, emphasizing their role in maintaining the holiness of the offerings and the sanctuary.

Malachi 1
This passage rebukes the priests for offering blemished sacrifices, highlighting the importance of honoring God with pure and holy offerings.

Hebrews 7
This chapter discusses the priesthood of Jesus, who is the perfect high priest, contrasting with the human priests who could fail in their duties.