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Author |
Moses |
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Date |
Between 1450 and 1400 BC |
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Time Span |
1 month. |
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Title |
The word "Leviticus" means "pertaining to the Levites." The title is appropriate since the Israelite priests were Levites, and the ministry of these priests is discussed. |
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Background |
The third book of the Pentateuch, Leviticus, is a continuation of the story in the book of Exodus. The book begins with Israel having completed construction of the Tabernacle. This handbook of instructions for the priests is given during Israel's one-year encampment at Mt. Sinai. |
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Where |
The general belief is that Moses received this revelation while on Mt. Sinai in the wilderness. |
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To Whom |
To the Israelites. |
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Content |
Leviticus sets down regulations to preserve the spiritual, moral, and physical purity of the people. Instructions are provided on how to live holy lives through sacrifice and worship. Also discussed are the 5 major offerings: 1) burnt offering, 2) meat (meal) offering 3) peace offering, 4) sin offering, and 5) trespass offering. Other concerns of Leviticus include: the Day of Atonement; all major festivals and holidays; cleanliness; Aaron's role as priest; laws for the priesthood; and laws to regulate holiness in all of life. |
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Themes |
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Key |
"Sanctified"; "Holiness." The Levites and, more specifically, the priests are set aside for service or "sanctified" to live as examples of "holiness" before all the people in all that they do. Sin is always detestable in God's sight. · God's plan is that all sin must be atoned for by the offering of sacrificial blood (as fulfilled in Christ's atonement). |
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Outline |
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