King James Version

What Does Leviticus 9:6 Mean?

Leviticus 9:6 in the King James Version says “And Moses said, This is the thing which the LORD commanded that ye should do: and the glory of the LORD shall appear unt...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Moses said, This is the thing which the LORD commanded that ye should do: and the glory of the LORD shall appear unto you.”

Leviticus 9:6 · KJV

Context

Also a bullock and a ram for peace offerings, to sacrifice before the LORD; and a meat offering mingled with oil: for to day the LORD will appear unto you.

And they brought that which Moses commanded before the tabernacle of the congregation: and all the congregation drew near and stood before the LORD.

And Moses said, This is the thing which the LORD commanded that ye should do: and the glory of the LORD shall appear unto you.

And Moses said unto Aaron, Go unto the altar, and offer thy sin offering, and thy burnt offering, and make an atonement for thyself, and for the people: and offer the offering of the people, and make an atonement for them; as the LORD commanded.

Aaron therefore went unto the altar, and slew the calf of the sin offering, which was for himself.

Read Leviticus 9 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary

And Moses said, This is the thing which the LORD commanded that ye should do: and the glory of the LORD shall appear unto you.

This verse falls within the section on Priests Begin Their Ministry. Aaron's first official sacrifices as high priest, culminating in God's glory appearing and fire consuming the offerings.

Every sacrifice and ritual in Leviticus points forward to Jesus Christ, who fulfills the entire sacrificial system as both perfect sacrifice and eternal high priest.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Aaron's first official sacrifices as high priest, culminating in God's glory appearing and fire consuming the offerings. 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

How does understanding the purpose behind God's laws help you obey Him from the heart rather than mere duty?
How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?
In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?