Leviticus 25:9

Analysis & Commentary

Then shalt thou cause the trumpet of the jubile to sound on the tenth day of the seventh month, in the day of atonement shall ye make the trumpet sound throughout all your land.

This verse falls within the section on Sabbath Year and Jubilee. Sabbath year rest for land and Year of Jubilee releasing debts and slaves, teaching trust in God's provision.

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.
Hebrews 9-10 explains how Christ's once-for-all sacrifice supersedes the repeated Levitical offerings, providing permanent cleansing from sin.

Historical Context

Sabbath year rest for land and Year of Jubilee releasing debts and slaves, teaching trust in God's provision. 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.

Questions for Reflection

• In what ways does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ's atoning sacrifice and the seriousness of sin?
• How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?
• How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?