Old Testament
Leviticus 10:4
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Moses called Mishael and Elzaphan, the sons of Uzziel, Aaron's uncle, and said to them, 'Come near and carry your brethren away from the sanctuary and out of the camp.'
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And Moses called Mishael and Elzaphan, the sons of Uzziel the uncle of Aaron, and said unto them, Come near, carry your brethren from before the sanctuary out of the camp.
What Leviticus 10:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses is instructing Mishael and Elzaphan, who are the sons of Uzziel and relatives of Aaron, to come forward and help remove the bodies of Nadab and Abihu, who had just died after offering unauthorized fire before the Lord. This moment highlights the seriousness of approaching God with reverence and the consequences of disobedience. The act of carrying the bodies away from the sanctuary signifies the need to maintain holiness in the presence of God and to deal with sin appropriately. It also emphasizes the importance of family and community in times of crisis, as these relatives are called to take care of their fallen brethren. This event serves as a sobering reminder of the standards God expects from His people, especially those in positions of leadership and service.
How to apply Leviticus 10:4 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of approaching God with respect and understanding the seriousness of our actions. It encourages us to support one another in difficult times and to uphold the standards of holiness in our lives and communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Aaron's story: Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1–7)
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Aaron
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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Keep studying Leviticus 10:4
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What happened in Leviticus 10:4?
In Leviticus 10:4, Moses calls Mishael and Elzaphan, the sons of Uzziel, to come forward and carry away the bodies of Nadab and Abihu, who had died after offering unauthorized fire before the Lord. This act underscores the seriousness of approaching God improperly and the immediate consequences of disobedience.
Why is the removal of Nadab and Abihu's bodies significant?
The removal of Nadab and Abihu's bodies is significant as it illustrates the need for holiness in the presence of God. Their deaths serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of adhering to God's commands, especially for those in leadership roles within the community.
What does this verse teach about family and community?
This verse highlights the importance of family and community support during crises. By calling Mishael and Elzaphan, Moses emphasizes the responsibility of relatives to care for one another, especially in times of tragedy. It reflects the communal aspect of faith and the need to uphold each other in difficult situations.
How does Leviticus 10:4 relate to the concept of holiness?
Leviticus 10:4 relates to the concept of holiness by demonstrating the seriousness with which God views worship and obedience. The act of carrying away the bodies signifies the need to maintain purity and reverence in the sanctuary, reminding believers that approaching God requires respect and adherence to His standards.
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