Leviticus 7:26

You must not eat the blood of any bird or animal in any of your dwellings.

Study Bible

You must not eat the blood
The prohibition against consuming blood is a recurring theme in the Mosaic Law, emphasizing the sanctity of life, as blood is often equated with life itself (Genesis 9:4, Leviticus 17:11). This command underscores the belief that life belongs to God, and thus, blood, as the life force, should not be consumed. The restriction also sets the Israelites apart from surrounding pagan cultures, which often included blood consumption in their rituals. This command foreshadows the New Testament teaching on the blood of Christ, which is central to the atonement and salvation (Hebrews 9:22).

of any bird or animal
This phrase extends the prohibition to all creatures, not just specific types, indicating the comprehensive nature of the command. It reflects the broader dietary laws given to Israel, which were intended to maintain ritual purity and distinguish the Israelites from other nations. The inclusion of both birds and animals suggests a universal application, reinforcing the idea that all life is sacred. This can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament's emphasis on spiritual purity and the sanctity of life (Acts 15:20).

in any of your dwellings.
The command applies to all places where the Israelites live, not just within the confines of the tabernacle or temple. This indicates that the law is not merely a ritualistic requirement but a lifestyle mandate, affecting daily living. It highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands in every aspect of life, not just in religious settings. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to live holy lives in all circumstances (1 Peter 1:15-16). The phrase also suggests a communal responsibility, as the entire community is to uphold these standards, reflecting the collective identity of God's people.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, including the prohibition against consuming blood.

3. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites where sacrifices were made, and where the laws were taught and upheld.

4. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where they were to live according to God's laws, including dietary restrictions.

5. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were responsible for teaching and enforcing the laws, including those concerning dietary practices.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Blood
Blood is considered sacred because it represents life. In the sacrificial system, it was used for atonement, symbolizing the life given to cover sin.

Obedience to God's Commands
The prohibition against consuming blood is a call to obedience, reflecting a heart willing to follow God's instructions even in dietary matters.

Respect for Life
By abstaining from blood, believers are reminded of the value of life and the importance of respecting God's creation.

Continuity of God's Law
The command not to consume blood is consistent throughout Scripture, showing the unchanging nature of God's moral and spiritual principles.

Holiness in Daily Living
Observing dietary laws was a daily reminder for the Israelites to live set apart for God, a principle that applies to Christians in living distinctively holy lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against consuming blood in Leviticus 7:26 reflect the broader theme of holiness in the book of Leviticus?

2. In what ways does the command to abstain from blood connect to the concept of life and atonement in the Bible?

3. How can the principle of obedience to God's commands in dietary laws be applied to modern Christian living?

4. What are some practical ways Christians today can demonstrate respect for life, as symbolized by the prohibition against consuming blood?

5. How does the reaffirmation of this command in Acts 15:20 influence our understanding of the continuity of God's moral law for believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:4
This verse establishes the initial prohibition against consuming blood, given to Noah after the flood, indicating the longstanding nature of this command.

Acts 15:20
The early church, through the Jerusalem Council, reaffirms the prohibition against consuming blood, showing its continued relevance for believers.

Hebrews 9:22
This verse highlights the significance of blood in the context of atonement, underscoring why it is set apart and not to be consumed.