Leviticus 7:27

If anyone eats blood, that person must be cut off from his people.'"

Study Bible

If anyone eats blood
The prohibition against consuming blood is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, first appearing in Genesis 9:4 when God commands Noah not to eat flesh with its lifeblood still in it. This command is reiterated in Leviticus 17:10-14 and Deuteronomy 12:23. Blood is considered sacred because it represents life, which belongs to God. In the sacrificial system, blood was used for atonement, symbolizing the life given to cover sin (Leviticus 17:11). The prohibition underscores the sanctity of life and the importance of respecting God's creation.

that person must be cut off from his people.’”
Being "cut off" from the people of Israel is a severe penalty, indicating either excommunication or divine judgment leading to death. This phrase emphasizes the seriousness of the command and the need for communal purity and obedience to God's laws. In the New Testament, the concept of being cut off is echoed in the idea of church discipline (1 Corinthians 5:11-13) and the importance of maintaining holiness within the community of believers. The prohibition against eating blood also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood was shed for the atonement of humanity's sins, fulfilling the sacrificial system and establishing a new covenant (Hebrews 9:12-14).

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. Tabernacle
The place where sacrifices were made and where the Israelites worshiped God during their journey in the wilderness.

4. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were responsible for performing sacrifices and teaching the Israelites the laws of God.

5. Covenant
The agreement between God and the Israelites, which included laws and commandments that set them apart as His people.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Life
Blood represents life, and consuming it was forbidden to remind the Israelites of the sanctity of life and the life-giving power of God.

Obedience to God's Commands
This command serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's laws, even when they may not be fully understood.

Separation from Pagan Practices
The prohibition against consuming blood distinguished the Israelites from surrounding nations, many of whom used blood in their rituals.

Respect for God's Provision
By abstaining from blood, the Israelites acknowledged God's provision and the life He sustains.

Symbolism of Atonement
Blood was used in sacrifices for atonement, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, whose blood was shed for the forgiveness of sins.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against consuming blood in Leviticus 7:27 reflect the broader theme of holiness in the book of Leviticus?

2. In what ways does the command to abstain from blood consumption connect to the New Testament teachings on the sanctity of life and the sacrifice of Christ?

3. How can understanding the cultural and religious context of ancient Israel help us apply the principles of Leviticus 7:27 in our lives today?

4. What are some modern practices or beliefs that might conflict with the principle of respecting the sanctity of life as taught in Leviticus 7:27?

5. How can we, as Christians, demonstrate obedience to God's commands in our daily lives, even when they challenge societal norms or personal preferences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:4
This verse establishes the initial prohibition against consuming blood, given to Noah after the flood, indicating that this command predates the Mosaic Law.

Acts 15:20
In the New Testament, the early church reaffirms the prohibition against consuming blood, showing its continued relevance for believers.

Hebrews 9:22
This verse explains the significance of blood in the context of atonement, highlighting its sacredness and why it was not to be consumed.