Old Testament
Leviticus 10:6
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Then Moses said to Aaron and his surviving sons Eleazar and Ithamar, "Don't let your hair hang loose, and don't tear your clothes — if you do, you'll die, and the LORD's anger will fall on the entire community. But the rest of Israel, your fellow people, may mourn the fire the LORD sent."
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And Moses said unto Aaron, and unto Eleazar and unto Ithamar, his sons, Uncover not your heads, neither rend your clothes; lest ye die, and lest wrath come upon all the people: but let your brethren, the whole house of Israel, bewail the burning which the LORD hath kindled.
What Leviticus 10:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses instructs Aaron and his remaining sons, Eleazar and Ithamar, on how to conduct themselves after a tragic event involving the death of Aaron's other sons. He tells them not to show signs of mourning, such as letting their hair hang loose or tearing their clothes, as these actions could lead to their own death and provoke God's anger against the entire community. Instead, the rest of the Israelites are permitted to mourn the loss caused by the fire that God sent. This directive emphasizes the seriousness of their priestly duties and the need for reverence in the presence of God, especially after a significant event that involved divine judgment. It highlights the distinction between personal grief and the responsibilities of leadership, reminding them that their actions can have broader implications for the community.
How to apply Leviticus 10:6 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of maintaining our responsibilities even in times of personal grief. As leaders or influential figures, our actions can impact others. We should prioritize our commitments and set an example, especially during challenging times.
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 10:6
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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 does Leviticus 10:6 mean?
Leviticus 10:6 conveys Moses' instructions to Aaron and his sons on how to behave after the death of Aaron's other sons. He tells them not to show signs of mourning, as their priestly duties require them to maintain reverence and avoid actions that could provoke God's anger.
What is the significance of not tearing clothes in Leviticus 10:6?
Not tearing clothes in Leviticus 10:6 symbolizes the need for Aaron and his sons to uphold their priestly responsibilities without showing personal grief. This directive emphasizes the importance of their role in maintaining order and reverence in the community after a tragic event.
What does the phrase 'the LORD's anger will fall on the entire community' mean?
The phrase indicates that the actions of Aaron and his sons could have serious consequences not just for themselves but for the entire Israelite community. It underscores the belief that leadership carries a responsibility to act in ways that honor God and protect the people.
Why were the rest of Israel allowed to mourn in Leviticus 10:6?
The rest of Israel was allowed to mourn because they were not in the same priestly position as Aaron and his sons. Their mourning was appropriate as they were not bound by the same responsibilities that required Aaron's family to maintain a specific conduct.
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