Leviticus 20:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Leviticus 20:7
7 Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.
Chapter Context
Leviticus 20 is a legal and ritual chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, prayer, 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 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 20:7
7 Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.
Analysis
Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.
This verse falls within the section on Penalties for Disobedience. Punishments for violations of sexual and religious laws, emphasizing the seriousness of sin in God's holy community.
The central theme of Leviticus is God's holiness and the call for His people to be holy. The Hebrew word qadosh (קָדוֹשׁ) means 'set apart' or 'sacred,' emphasizing both separation from sin and consecration to God's purposes.
The New Testament reveals that Christ's sacrifice accomplishes what the Levitical system could only symbolize—complete forgiveness and restoration of relationship with God.
Historical Context
Punishments for violations of sexual and religious laws, emphasizing the seriousness of sin in God's holy community. 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 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
- How does God's holiness, as revealed in this verse, shape your understanding of worship, obedience, and daily living?
- What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
- What practical steps can you take this week to apply the principles taught in this verse?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: 1 Thessalonians 4:3
- Holy: Leviticus 11:44, 19:2, Ephesians 1:4, Colossians 3:12, 1 Thessalonians 4:7, Hebrews 12:14