King James Version

What Does Leviticus 10:20 Mean?

Leviticus 10:20 in the King James Version says “And when Moses heard that, he was content .” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And when Moses heard that, he was content .”

Leviticus 10:20 · KJV

Context

18

Behold, the blood of it was not brought in within the holy place: ye should indeed have eaten it in the holy place, as I commanded.

19

And Aaron said unto Moses, Behold, this day have they offered their sin offering and their burnt offering before the LORD; and such things have befallen me: and if I had eaten the sin offering to day, should it have been accepted in the sight of the LORD?

20

And when Moses heard that, he was content .

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And when Moses heard that, he was content.

This verse falls within the section on Nadab and Abihu's Unauthorized Fire. The tragic death of Aaron's sons for offering unauthorized fire demonstrates the severity of approaching God improperly.


The access to God's presence that Leviticus carefully regulated is now freely available through Christ's blood, tearing the veil and opening the way to God.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The tragic death of Aaron's sons for offering unauthorized fire demonstrates the severity of approaching God improperly. Chapters 8-10 describe the priesthood's consecration and early ministry. Aaron and his sons received special anointing for their mediatorial role between God and Israel. The tragic account of Nadab and Abihu (ch. 10) demonstrates that approaching God requires reverence and obedience. Ancient Near Eastern cultures had various sacrificial systems, but Israel's sacrificial worship was unique in its ethical foundation, monotheistic framework, and emphasis on atonement rather than appeasement. Unlike pagan rituals focused on manipulating deities, Israel's sacrifices acknowledged God's sovereignty and sought reconciliation based on His gracious provision. The Israelite dietary laws in Leviticus 11 have no exact parallel in surrounding cultures, though some ancient cultures had food taboos, suggesting unique revelation rather than borrowed customs.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?
  2. How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?
  3. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע1 of 4

“heard”

H8085

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

מֹשֶׁ֔ה2 of 4

“And when Moses”

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

וַיִּיטַ֖ב3 of 4

“that he was content”

H3190

to be (causative) make well, literally (sound, beautiful) or figuratively (happy, successful, right)

בְּעֵינָֽיו׃4 of 4
H5869

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Leviticus 10:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Leviticus 10:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 12:3-7Zechariah 7:8-92 Chronicles 30:18-20Matthew 12:20

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