The book of Leviticus
The Book of Leviticus
What is the book of Leviticus about?
The book of Leviticus outlines how we should worship the Lord and the governing principles of Jewish society at the time. Leviticus tells us about offerings and how they are to be prepared and carried out. It also tells us about Aaron and his sons being ordained as Priests, the difference between clean and unclean (foods, acts, bodily functions, etc.), the annual day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), and rules for Holy living.
Who wrote the book of Leviticus?
Leviticus is the third of five books written by Moses. It is probable that scribes or editors in later years added content to this book.
Who is the audience?
God’s chosen people (the Israelites)
Timeframe Leviticus was written:
Around the 1400s BC. Some sources deduce that it was written between 1446 and 1406 BC
"In short" (One sentence summary):
The book of Leviticus illustrates the rules for holiness and how we should worship and honor the Lord.
Fun facts about Exodus/Did you know?
- Aaron was Moses’ older brother.
- The book of Leviticus explains a lot of rules Orthodox Jews live by today.
- Homosexual acts are also addressed in Leviticus as well as the decree that the Lord does not want you to tattoo yourself as it was consistent with the culture of the Pagans.
- Incest and the like is clearly made unlawful.
- Animals that are acceptable to eat are those that have a divided hoof AND chews the cud. Those that do not meet this criteria were unclean for consumption.
- “Anything living in the water that does not have fins and scales is to be regarded as unclean by you.” (Lev 11:12). Unclean birds and insects are also outlined in the Book of Leviticus.
