Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace.

LEVITICUS 10:3KJV
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Leviticus 10:3 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 10:3 mean?

Leviticus 10:3 records Moses telling Aaron that God had said He must be treated as holy by those who approach Him, and that He will be honored before all the people. In response, Aaron remains silent, accepting what has happened.

This verse comes right after the sudden death of Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before God. Moses speaks to Aaron, explaining that God’s holiness and honor are not to be taken lightly, especially by those serving closest to Him. Aaron’s silence shows his acceptance of God’s judgment, even in deep personal loss.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 10:3

  • "Sanctified" — קָדַשׁ (qadash): This word means to be set apart as holy. Here, it emphasizes that those who serve near God must treat Him with special reverence and not act carelessly.
  • "Glorified" — כָּבֵד (kavod): This word carries the sense of giving weight, honor, or respect. The verse highlights that God’s reputation and honor must be upheld publicly, especially by leaders.
  • "Peace" — דָּמַם (damam): This word means to be silent or still. Aaron’s silence is more than just not speaking; it reflects a deep, respectful acceptance of God’s decision.

Why Leviticus 10:3 matters

  • This verse clarifies that serving God, especially in leadership or priestly roles, comes with a higher responsibility to honor His holiness.
  • It explains why God’s response to Nadab and Abihu’s actions was so severe, showing that God’s standards for worship are not negotiable.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme in Leviticus of God’s holiness and the seriousness of approaching Him in the wrong way, helping readers understand the context of the priesthood and worship in ancient Israel.

Where else these words appear

“peace” Hebrew H1826 · used in 29 verses

  • Exodus 15:16 Fear and dread shall fall upon them; by the greatness of thine arm they shall be as still as a stone; till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over, which thou hast purchased.
  • Psalms 30:12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.
  • Jeremiah 47:6 O thou sword of the LORD, how long will it be ere thou be quiet? put up thyself into thy scabbard, rest, and be still.

“nigh” Hebrew H7138 · used in 76 verses

  • Genesis 19:20 Behold now, this city is near to flee unto, and it is a little one: Oh, let me escape thither,( is it not a little one?) and my soul shall live.
  • 1 Chronicles 12:40 Moreover they that were nigh them, even unto Issachar and Zebulun and Naphtali, brought bread on asses, and on camels, and on mules, and on oxen, and meat, meal, cakes of figs, and bunches of raisins, and wine, and oil, and oxen, and sheep abundantly: for there was joy in Israel.
  • Isaiah 55:6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:

“glorified” Hebrew H3513 · used in 109 verses

  • Genesis 13:2 And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold.
  • 2 Samuel 10:3 And the princes of the children of Ammon said unto Hanun their lord, Thinkest thou that David doth honour thy father, that he hath sent comforters unto thee? hath not David rather sent his servants unto thee, to search the city, and to spy it out, and to overthrow it?
  • Proverbs 12:9 He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.