King James Version

What Does Leviticus 24:12 Mean?

Leviticus 24:12 in the King James Version says “And they put him in ward, that the mind of the LORD might be shewed them. that: Heb. to expound unto them according to t...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And they put him in ward, that the mind of the LORD might be shewed them. that: Heb. to expound unto them according to the mouth of the LORD”

Leviticus 24:12 · KJV

Context

10

And the son of an Israelitish woman, whose father was an Egyptian , went out among the children of Israel : and this son of the Israelitish woman and a man of Israel strove together in the camp;

11

And the Israelitish woman's son blasphemed the name of the LORD, and cursed. And they brought him unto Moses: (and his mother's name was Shelomith, the daughter of Dibri, of the tribe of Dan:)

12

And they put him in ward, that the mind of the LORD might be shewed them. that: Heb. to expound unto them according to the mouth of the LORD

13

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

14

Bring forth him that hath cursed without the camp; and let all that heard him lay their hands upon his head, and let all the congregation stone him.

Read Leviticus 24 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And they put him in ward, that the mind of the LORD might be shewed them.

This verse falls within the section on Oil, Bread, and Blasphemy. Instructions for tabernacle maintenance and the account of a blasphemer's punishment, showing reverence for God's name.


The holiness demanded in Leviticus becomes possible through Christ, who both satisfies God's righteous requirements and transforms believers by His Spirit.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Instructions for tabernacle maintenance and the account of a blasphemer's punishment, showing reverence for God's name. 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. The tabernacle's design parallels ancient Near Eastern temple architecture, yet its portable nature and absence of divine images distinguished it from pagan temples.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
  2. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?
  3. What practical steps can you take this week to apply the principles taught in this verse?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וַיַּנִּיחֻ֖הוּ1 of 7

“And they put”

H3240

to deposit; by implication, to allow to stay

בַּמִּשְׁמָ֑ר2 of 7

“him in ward”

H4929

a guard (the man, the post or the prison); a deposit (figuratively); also (as observed) a usage (abstractly), or an example (concretely)

לִפְרֹ֥שׁ3 of 7

“might be shewed”

H6567

to separate, literally (to disperse) or figuratively (to specify); also (by implication) to wound

לָהֶ֖ם4 of 7
H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

עַל5 of 7
H5921

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

פִּ֥י6 of 7

“that the mind”

H6310

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

יְהוָֽה׃7 of 7

“of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

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 24:12 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 24:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 18:15-16Numbers 15:34Numbers 36:5-6Numbers 27:5Exodus 18:23

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