Old Testament
Leviticus 17:12
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That is why I have told the people of Israel: None of you may eat blood, and no foreigner living among you may eat blood either.
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Therefore I said unto the children of Israel, No soul of you shall eat blood, neither shall any stranger that sojourneth among you eat blood.
What Leviticus 17:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 17:12, God instructs the Israelites about the prohibition of consuming blood. This command emphasizes the sacredness of life, as blood is seen as the life force of the animal. By forbidding blood consumption, God is teaching His people to respect life and recognize that blood is meant for atonement and sacrifice, not for food. This rule also extends to foreigners living among them, indicating that the respect for God's laws applies to everyone in the community. The emphasis on blood signifies its importance in the sacrificial system, where it is used to symbolize the covenant between God and His people. This command serves to set Israel apart from other nations, reinforcing their identity as a holy people dedicated to God.
How to apply Leviticus 17:12 to your life
Today, this verse reminds us to respect the sanctity of life and the importance of obedience to God's commands. It encourages us to consider how we treat others and the choices we make regarding food and consumption, reflecting our values and beliefs in our daily lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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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 17:12 mean?
Leviticus 17:12 conveys God's command to the Israelites prohibiting the consumption of blood, emphasizing the sacredness of life and the importance of respecting God's laws regarding atonement and sacrifice.
What is the significance of blood in Leviticus 17:12?
In Leviticus 17:12, blood represents life and is sacred; it is reserved for atonement and sacrifice, highlighting the seriousness of God's covenant with His people.
Why are foreigners included in the prohibition of blood in Leviticus 17:12?
The inclusion of foreigners in Leviticus 17:12 indicates that God's laws apply to everyone living among the Israelites, reinforcing the community's collective identity and respect for divine commands.
What does this verse teach about community identity?
Leviticus 17:12 teaches that the prohibition of blood consumption sets the Israelites apart from other nations, emphasizing their identity as a holy people dedicated to following God's laws.
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