King James Version

What Does Leviticus 8:36 Mean?

Leviticus 8:36 in the King James Version says “So Aaron and his sons did all things which the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses. — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Leviticus 8:36 · KJV


Context

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.


Commentary

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

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 Aaronic priesthood mediated between God and Israel, offering sacrifices and maintaining the tabernacle. This prefigured Christ's superior priesthood after the order of Melchizedek.
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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

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. Ancient sacrificial texts from cultures surrounding Israel demonstrate the widespread practice of animal sacrifice, but Israel's system uniquely emphasized moral atonement over magical efficacy.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Christ's superior priesthood, prefigured in this verse, assure you of access to God and effective intercession?
  2. How does understanding the purpose behind God's laws help you obey Him from the heart rather than mere duty?
  3. How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וַיַּ֥עַשׂ1 of 11

did

H6213

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

אַֽהֲרֹ֖ן2 of 11

So Aaron

H175

aharon, the brother of moses

וּבָנָ֑יו3 of 11

and his sons

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אֵ֚ת4 of 11
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

כָּל5 of 11
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הַדְּבָרִ֔ים6 of 11

all things

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

אֲשֶׁר7 of 11
H834

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

צִוָּ֥ה8 of 11

commanded

H6680

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

יְהוָ֖ה9 of 11

which the LORD

H3068

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

בְּיַד10 of 11

by the hand

H3027

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

מֹשֶֽׁה׃11 of 11

of Moses

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver


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 8:36 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 8:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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