Old Testament
Leviticus 22:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Speak to Aaron, his sons, and all the Israelites. Tell them: Whether someone is an Israelite or a foreigner living in Israel, whenever anyone brings an offering to the LORD — whether to fulfill a vow or as a freewill offering — if it is a burnt offering,"
Compare translations
Speak unto Aaron, and to his sons, and unto all the children of Israel, and say unto them, Whatsoever he be of the house of Israel, or of the strangers in Israel, that will offer his oblation for all his vows, and for all his freewill offerings, which they will offer unto the LORD for a burnt offering;
What Leviticus 22:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 22:18, God instructs Moses to communicate with Aaron, his sons, and the entire Israelite community about the proper way to present offerings. This verse emphasizes that both Israelites and foreigners residing in Israel are welcome to bring offerings to God. The offerings can be made to fulfill a vow or as a voluntary act of worship. Specifically, it mentions burnt offerings, which are significant in the sacrificial system as they symbolize complete dedication to God. This inclusivity highlights God's desire for all people, regardless of their background, to participate in worship and express their devotion through offerings. The verse sets the stage for understanding the importance of sincerity and intention behind the offerings made to the Lord, reinforcing the idea that worship is accessible to everyone who seeks to honor God.
How to apply Leviticus 22:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to approach God with our offerings, whether they are vows or acts of gratitude. It reminds us that worship is open to everyone, and we should express our devotion sincerely, regardless of our background or status.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel

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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Leviticus 22:18
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Leviticus 22:18
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 22:18 mean?
Leviticus 22:18 conveys God's instructions to Moses about how both Israelites and foreigners can present offerings to Him. It emphasizes that anyone can bring offerings, whether to fulfill a vow or as a voluntary act of worship, highlighting inclusivity in worship.
What is the significance of burnt offerings in Leviticus 22:18?
Burnt offerings mentioned in Leviticus 22:18 symbolize complete dedication and commitment to God. They represent a total surrender to God, as the entire offering is consumed by fire, signifying the worshiper's devotion.
Who can bring offerings according to Leviticus 22:18?
According to Leviticus 22:18, both Israelites and foreigners living in Israel are permitted to bring offerings to the Lord. This inclusivity shows that worship is accessible to all who wish to honor God.
What types of offerings are mentioned in Leviticus 22:18?
Leviticus 22:18 mentions offerings made to fulfill a vow and freewill offerings, specifically highlighting burnt offerings. These offerings can be acts of gratitude or commitments made to God.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.