Leviticus 19:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Leviticus 19:28
28 Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.
Chapter Context
Leviticus 19 is a legal and ritual chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, holiness, creation. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The ritual systems addressed were designed to distinguish Israel from surrounding Canaanite practices.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-37: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Leviticus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Leviticus 19:28
28 Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.
Analysis
Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.
This verse falls within the section on Various Laws of Holiness. Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18).
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.
Historical Context
Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18). 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. Ancient texts like the Code of Hammurabi show that law codes were common in the ancient Near East, but biblical law uniquely grounded ethics in God's character rather than merely social convention.
Reflection
- What practical steps can you take this week to apply the principles taught in this verse?
- How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?
- In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Leviticus 21:1, Deuteronomy 14:1
- Parallel theme: Leviticus 21:5, 1 Kings 18:28, Jeremiah 16:6, 48:37, Mark 5:5, Revelation 20:4