Leviticus 22:9

The priests must keep My charge, lest they bear the guilt and die because they profane it. I am the LORD who sanctifies them.

Study Bible

The priests
The Hebrew term for "priests" is "kohanim," referring to the descendants of Aaron who were set apart for the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. Historically, the role of the priest was central to the spiritual life of Israel, acting as mediators between God and the people. This highlights the importance of their adherence to God's commands, as they were entrusted with maintaining the sanctity of worship.

are to keep
The phrase "are to keep" comes from the Hebrew word "shamar," which means to guard, watch, or preserve. This implies a vigilant and active role in maintaining the holiness of their duties. The priests were not merely passive participants but were to be diligent in their observance of God's laws, ensuring that nothing unholy entered into their service.

My requirements
The "requirements" refer to the commandments and statutes given by God specifically for the priests. These were detailed instructions on how to conduct sacrifices, maintain purity, and perform their duties. The emphasis on "My" underscores that these are divine mandates, not human traditions, and thus carry the weight of God's authority.

so that they do not incur guilt
The concept of "incur guilt" is tied to the Hebrew word "asham," which denotes a state of being guilty or liable for wrongdoing. For the priests, failing to adhere to God's requirements meant bearing the responsibility for sin, which had serious spiritual and communal consequences. This phrase serves as a warning of the gravity of their role and the need for strict obedience.

and die
The consequence of disobedience is severe—death. This reflects the holiness of God and the seriousness of approaching Him with reverence and purity. In the historical context, the death of a priest due to negligence would serve as a sobering reminder to the community of the sanctity of God's presence and the importance of upholding His commands.

because they desecrate
To "desecrate" means to treat something sacred with disrespect. The Hebrew root "chalal" conveys the idea of profaning or polluting. The priests were to ensure that their actions did not defile the sacred offerings, which were set apart for God. This highlights the need for purity and reverence in all aspects of worship.

the sacred offerings
The "sacred offerings" were the sacrifices and gifts brought to God, which were central to the worship and atonement practices of Israel. These offerings were considered holy, set apart for God, and were to be handled with the utmost care and respect. The priests' role in managing these offerings was crucial to maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people.

I am the LORD
This declaration, "I am the LORD," is a reminder of God's sovereignty and authority. The use of "LORD" in all capitals signifies the divine name, Yahweh, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. It serves as a foundation for the priests' obedience, as they serve not just any deity, but the one true God who has revealed Himself to Israel.

who sanctifies them
The phrase "who sanctifies them" underscores God's role in setting the priests apart for His service. The Hebrew word "qadash" means to make holy or consecrate. It is God who imparts holiness, enabling the priests to fulfill their duties. This divine sanctification is both a privilege and a responsibility, calling the priests to live in a manner worthy of their calling.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, chosen by God to serve in the tabernacle and later in the temple, responsible for performing sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the sacred space.

2. Sacred Offerings
These are the offerings brought by the Israelites to the tabernacle or temple, which were to be handled with utmost reverence and care by the priests.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His role as the one who sanctifies and sets apart His people for His purposes.

4. Tabernacle/Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where the presence of God dwelt and where the priests performed their duties.

5. Sanctification
The process of being made holy, set apart for God's purposes, which is a central theme in the book of Leviticus.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Service
The priests were required to maintain a standard of holiness in their service, reflecting the holiness of God. As believers, we are called to serve God with reverence and purity in our lives.

The Seriousness of Sin
The warning of death for desecrating sacred offerings underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and reverence in our approach to God.

God as Sanctifier
God is the one who sanctifies His people. Our efforts to live holy lives are empowered by His grace and presence in our lives.

Responsibility of Leadership
Spiritual leaders have a responsibility to uphold God's standards and lead by example, ensuring that their actions do not lead others into sin.

The Role of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial for maintaining a right relationship with Him and experiencing His blessings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priests in Leviticus 22:9 relate to the concept of the priesthood of all believers in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are treating the "sacred offerings" in our lives with the reverence they deserve?

3. How does understanding God as the one who sanctifies us impact our daily walk with Him?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain holiness in our service to God and others?

5. How can spiritual leaders today apply the principles of Leviticus 22:9 in their leadership and ministry?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28-29
These chapters describe the consecration of the priests and their garments, emphasizing the holiness required in their service.

1 Peter 2:9
This verse speaks to the New Testament believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the priestly duties to the calling of all Christians to live holy lives.

Hebrews 7:26-28
These verses highlight Jesus as the perfect high priest, who fulfills the requirements of holiness and sanctification on behalf of His people.