Leviticus 17:14

For the life of all flesh is its blood. Therefore I have told the Israelites, 'You must not eat the blood of any living thing, because the life of all flesh is its blood; whoever eats it must be cut off.'

Study Bible

For the life of all flesh is its blood.
This phrase emphasizes the intrinsic connection between life and blood, a concept deeply rooted in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Blood was seen as the life force, a belief that underscores many of the sacrificial practices in the Old Testament. In Genesis 9:4, God commands Noah not to consume blood, establishing a precedent for this prohibition. Theologically, this connection between life and blood foreshadows the sacrificial system and ultimately points to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood is said to bring eternal life (Hebrews 9:22).

Therefore I have told the Israelites,
God's direct communication with the Israelites highlights the covenant relationship between Him and His chosen people. This command is part of the Holiness Code, a section of Leviticus (chapters 17-26) that outlines how the Israelites are to live as a holy nation. The specificity of the audience underscores the unique identity and calling of Israel among the nations, as seen in Exodus 19:5-6.

‘You must not eat the blood of any living thing,
This prohibition is not only a dietary restriction but also a spiritual mandate. It distinguishes the Israelites from surrounding nations, many of whom practiced blood consumption in their rituals. The command reflects a respect for life and the sanctity of blood, which is reserved for atonement purposes (Leviticus 17:11). This restriction is reiterated in the New Testament, where the apostles instruct Gentile believers to abstain from blood (Acts 15:20).

because the life of all flesh is its blood;
Repetition of this principle reinforces its importance. The life-blood connection is central to understanding the sacrificial system, where blood is used for atonement, symbolizing the life given in place of another. This concept is fulfilled in the New Testament, where Christ's blood is described as the means of atonement for sin (Romans 3:25).

whoever eats it must be cut off.’
The severe consequence of being "cut off" indicates the gravity of this command. In the context of ancient Israel, being cut off could mean excommunication from the community or divine judgment. This underscores the holiness required of God's people and the seriousness of maintaining purity. The phrase also points to the ultimate separation from God that sin causes, a theme that is resolved through the reconciliation offered by Christ's sacrifice (Colossians 1:20).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws of Leviticus were given. They were to be set apart as holy and distinct from other nations.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the laws and commandments to the Israelites.

3. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where sacrifices were made, and God's presence dwelt among His people.

4. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received the laws of Leviticus during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

5. The Sacrificial System
The system of offerings and sacrifices instituted by God, which included specific instructions about the handling of blood.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Life
The prohibition against consuming blood underscores the sanctity of life, as blood represents life itself. This principle calls us to respect and honor life in all its forms.

Obedience to God's Commands
The command not to consume blood was a test of obedience for the Israelites. Similarly, we are called to obey God's commands, even when we may not fully understand their purpose.

The Symbolism of Blood in Atonement
Blood plays a crucial role in the sacrificial system as a means of atonement. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood was shed for the forgiveness of sins.

Holiness and Distinction
The dietary laws, including the prohibition of blood, set the Israelites apart as God's holy people. As Christians, we are called to live distinct and holy lives, reflecting God's character.

Continuity of God's Moral Law
The prohibition against consuming blood is reiterated in the New Testament, demonstrating the continuity of God's moral law and its relevance for believers today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against consuming blood in Leviticus 17:14 reflect the value God places on life?

2. In what ways does the command to abstain from blood consumption challenge us to consider our own obedience to God's instructions?

3. How does the symbolism of blood in the Old Testament sacrificial system point to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out the principle of holiness and distinction in our daily lives?

5. How does the continuity of the prohibition against consuming blood from the Old Testament to the New Testament inform our understanding of God's unchanging moral law?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:4
This verse establishes the prohibition against consuming blood, highlighting its sacredness as the life force of creatures.

Acts 15:20
The early church council in Jerusalem reaffirms the prohibition against consuming blood, showing continuity in God's expectations for His people.

Hebrews 9:22
This verse explains the significance of blood in the context of atonement and forgiveness, emphasizing its sacred role in the sacrificial system.