Old Testament
Leviticus 8:5
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Moses said to the congregation, "This is what the LORD has commanded to be done."
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And Moses said unto the congregation, This is the thing which the LORD commanded to be done.
What Leviticus 8:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses is addressing the people of Israel, conveying a message from God. He emphasizes the importance of following God's commands. This moment is significant as it marks the beginning of the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. Moses acts as a mediator between God and the people, ensuring that they understand the divine instructions. The phrase 'this is what the LORD has commanded' highlights the authority of God's word and the necessity for obedience. It serves as a reminder that the rituals and practices established by God are not arbitrary but are meant to guide the community in their relationship with Him. The act of Moses speaking to the congregation also reinforces the communal aspect of worship and obedience, as the entire community is called to participate in the sacred rituals that follow. This verse sets the stage for the detailed instructions that will follow regarding the priestly duties and the importance of holiness in worship.
How to apply Leviticus 8:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to listen to and follow God's commands in our lives. Just as Moses communicated God's instructions to the people, we should seek to understand and apply God's word in our daily actions. Engaging with scripture helps us align our lives with God's will and fosters a sense of community in our faith journey.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Aaron and His Sons Become Priests (Leviticus 8:1–9:24)
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Moses

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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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 8:5 mean?
Leviticus 8:5 means that Moses is relaying God's commands to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of obedience to divine instructions. This moment marks the start of the consecration process for Aaron and his sons as priests.
What is the significance of Moses speaking in Leviticus 8:5?
Moses speaking in Leviticus 8:5 signifies his role as a mediator between God and the people, ensuring they understand and follow God's commands. It highlights the communal aspect of worship and the importance of collective obedience.
What is the context of Leviticus 8:5?
The context of Leviticus 8:5 is the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, where Moses communicates God's instructions to the congregation. This sets the stage for the rituals and practices that are essential for worship.
What does 'the LORD has commanded' mean in Leviticus 8:5?
'The LORD has commanded' in Leviticus 8:5 emphasizes the authority of God's word and the necessity for the Israelites to obey His instructions. It underscores that the rituals are divinely ordained and important for their relationship with God.
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