King James Version
What Does Leviticus 16:1 Mean?
“And the LORD spake unto Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron, when they offered before the LORD, and died;”
Context
1
And the LORD spake unto Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron, when they offered before the LORD, and died;
2
And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the vail before the mercy seat, which is upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat.
3
Thus shall Aaron come into the holy place: with a young bullock for a sin offering, and a ram for a burnt offering.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English ReadersXVI.
(1) **And the Lord spake unto Moses.**—As the observance of the minute regulations given in the preceding chapters about the daily sacrifices and purifications would necessarily be tainted with many imperfections and shortcomings, both on the part of the mediating priests and the offering laity, a general day of atonement is here instituted, when priest and people are alike to obtain atonement once a year for the sins which were mixed up even with their sacred worship. The day of atonement enacted in the chapter before us is therefore an appropriate conclusion of the laws of purification in the preceding chapters. It is an annual supplement and completion of all the ordinances which were daily practised, and the design of which was to obtain atonement and reconciliation.
**After the death of the two sons of Aaron.**—That is, after Nadab and Abihu, his two eldest sons, had died, in consequence of having presumptuously entered the sanctuary in a profane manner, and at an irregular time. (See Leviticus 10:1-2.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 16:1 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 16:1
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge