Question 1

What does Leviticus 16:1 mean?

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 16:1 states that the LORD spoke to Moses after the death of Aaron’s two sons, who died when they offered something before the LORD that they should not have. This verse sets the stage for what follows by reminding the reader of a serious event involving Aaron’s family. The verse refers to a moment after the deaths of Nadab and Abihu, Aaron’s sons, who died because they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD (as described earlier in Leviticus 10). Here, God is addressing Moses in the aftermath, preparing to give instructions about approaching Him, especially for Aaron as high priest. The verse highlights the seriousness of approaching God in the wrong way.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 16:1

Accepted Answer

LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name for God, emphasizing that these instructions come directly from Him, not just a general command. death (מָוֶת, mavet): The word for “death” is used to recall the fatal consequence for Aaron’s sons, underlining the gravity of what happened. offered (קָרַב, qarav): This word means “to bring near” or “to offer,” and in this context, it points to the act that led to their death—approaching God in an unauthorized way. before (פָּנִים, panim): This means “before” or “in the presence of,” stressing that the sons acted directly in God’s presence, which was a sacred and dangerous thing if done wrongly.

Question 3

Why Leviticus 16:1 matters

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 16:1 reminds the reader that God’s holiness is not to be taken lightly, and that even priests must follow His instructions carefully. The verse connects the instructions that follow—about the Day of Atonement—to a real and tragic event, showing why these rules are necessary. By mentioning the deaths of Aaron’s sons, the verse prepares the reader to understand the seriousness and purpose behind the detailed rituals that are about to be explained.

Leviticus 16:1 (KJV)