King James Version

What Does Leviticus 8:34 Mean?

Leviticus 8:34 in the King James Version says “As he hath done this day, so the LORD hath commanded to do, to make an atonement for you.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“As he hath done this day, so the LORD hath commanded to do, to make an atonement for you.”

Leviticus 8:34 · KJV

Context

32

And that which remaineth of the flesh and of the bread shall ye burn with fire.

33

And ye shall not go out of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation in seven days, until the days of your consecration be at an end: for seven days shall he consecrate you.

34

As he hath done this day, so the LORD hath commanded to do, to make an atonement for you.

35

Therefore shall ye abide at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation day and night seven days, and keep the charge of the LORD, that ye die not: for so I am commanded.

36

So Aaron and his sons did all things which the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses.

Read Leviticus 8 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
As he hath done this day, so the LORD hath commanded to do, to make an atonement for you.

This verse falls within the section on Consecration of Aaron and Sons. The ordination ceremony established the Aaronic priesthood, involving washing, anointing, and sacrifice—prefiguring Christ's priesthood.

The Hebrew word kaphar (כָּפַר) means 'to cover' or 'to make atonement.' The sacrificial system provided temporary covering for sin, pointing forward to Christ's perfect, once-for-all sacrifice.
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 ordination ceremony established the Aaronic priesthood, involving washing, anointing, and sacrifice—prefiguring Christ's priesthood. 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 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. In what ways does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ's atoning sacrifice and the seriousness of sin?
  2. How does understanding the purpose behind God's laws help you obey Him from the heart rather than mere duty?
  3. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 9 words
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֥ר1 of 9
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

לַֽעֲשֹׂ֖ת2 of 9

“As he hath done”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

בַּיּ֣וֹם3 of 9

“this day”

H3117

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

הַזֶּ֑ה4 of 9
H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

צִוָּ֧ה5 of 9

“hath commanded”

H6680

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

יְהוָ֛ה6 of 9

“so the LORD”

H3068

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

לַֽעֲשֹׂ֖ת7 of 9

“As he hath done”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

לְכַפֵּ֥ר8 of 9

“to make an atonement”

H3722

to cover (specifically with bitumen)

עֲלֵיכֶֽם׃9 of 9
H5921

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

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 8:34 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 8:34 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Hebrews 7:27Hebrews 7:16Hebrews 10:11-12

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