King James Version

What Does Leviticus 6:8 Mean?

Leviticus 6:8 in the King James Version says “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Leviticus 6:8 · KJV


Context

6

And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the LORD, a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass offering, unto the priest:

7

And the priest shall make an atonement for him before the LORD: and it shall be forgiven him for any thing of all that he hath done in trespassing therein.

8

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

9

Command Aaron and his sons, saying, This is the law of the burnt offering: It is the burnt offering, because of the burning upon the altar all night unto the morning, and the fire of the altar shall be burning in it. because: or, for the burning

10

And the priest shall put on his linen garment, and his linen breeches shall he put upon his flesh, and take up the ashes which the fire hath consumed with the burnt offering on the altar, and he shall put them beside the altar.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

This verse falls within the section on Priestly Instructions for Offerings. Detailed regulations for priests administering the sacrificial system, emphasizing holiness and proper handling of sacred things.


The New Testament reveals that Christ's sacrifice accomplishes what the Levitical system could only symbolize—complete forgiveness and restoration of relationship with God.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Detailed regulations for priests administering the sacrificial system, emphasizing holiness and proper handling of sacred things. Leviticus was given to Israel at Mount Sinai, shortly after the tabernacle's construction described in Exodus. The name 'Leviticus' (from Latin Leviticus, referring to the Levites) reflects its focus on priestly duties, though the Hebrew title Wayyiqra ('And He called') emphasizes God's initiative in revealing these laws. The first seven chapters detail the five main offerings, providing both worshiper instructions and priestly procedures. 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 can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?
  2. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?
  3. How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר1 of 5

spake

H1696

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

יְהוָ֖ה2 of 5

And the LORD

H3068

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

אֶל3 of 5
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

מֹשֶׁ֥ה4 of 5

unto Moses

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

לֵּאמֹֽר׃5 of 5

saying

H559

to say (used with great latitude)


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 6:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study