King James Version

What Does Leviticus 19:26 Mean?

Leviticus 19:26 in the King James Version says “Ye shall not eat any thing with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Ye shall not eat any thing with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times.”

Leviticus 19:26 · KJV

Context

24

But in the fourth year all the fruit thereof shall be holy to praise the LORD withal. holy: Heb. holiness of praises to the LORD

25

And in the fifth year shall ye eat of the fruit thereof, that it may yield unto you the increase thereof: I am the LORD your God.

26

Ye shall not eat any thing with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times.

27

Ye shall not round the corners of your heads, neither shalt thou mar the corners of thy beard.

28

Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.

Read Leviticus 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Ye shall not eat any thing with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times.

This verse falls within the section on Various Laws of Holiness. Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18).

Leviticus 17:11 declares 'the life of the flesh is in the blood,' establishing blood's sacred role in atonement, pointing to Christ's blood shed for redemption.
Hebrews 9-10 explains how Christ's once-for-all sacrifice supersedes the repeated Levitical offerings, providing permanent cleansing from sin.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18). Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. Ancient texts like the Code of Hammurabi show that law codes were common in the ancient Near East, but biblical law uniquely grounded ethics in God's character rather than merely social convention.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?
  2. What practical steps can you take this week to apply the principles taught in this verse?
  3. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
לֹ֥א1 of 8
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תֹֽאכְל֖וּ2 of 8

“Ye shall not eat”

H398

to eat (literally or figuratively)

עַל3 of 8
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

הַדָּ֑ם4 of 8

“any thing with the blood”

H1818

blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe

לֹ֥א5 of 8
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תְנַֽחֲשׁ֖וּ6 of 8

“nor observe times”

H6049

figuratively, to act covertly, i.e., practise magic

וְלֹ֥א7 of 8
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תְעוֹנֵֽנוּ׃8 of 8

“neither shall ye use enchantment”

H5172

properly, to hiss, i.e., whisper a (magic) spell; generally, to prognosticate

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 19:26 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 19:26 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Deuteronomy 18:10-142 Kings 17:172 Chronicles 33:62 Kings 21:6Deuteronomy 12:23Leviticus 3:17

Test Your Knowledge

Leviticus 19 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLeviticus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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