Leviticus 5:14 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 5:14 mean?

Leviticus 5:14 introduces a new message from God, stating that the LORD spoke directly to Moses. This verse signals the beginning of a fresh instruction or law that God wants Moses to hear and then share with the people of Israel.

The verse is set in the book of Leviticus, where Moses serves as the leader and mediator between God and the Israelites. The phrase marks a transition, letting the reader know that what follows is a direct command from God, not just a continuation of previous instructions. This sets the stage for the specific guidance about offerings and atonement that comes in the next verses.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 5:14

• LORD (יְהוָ֖ה, Yahweh): This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing that the instructions come from the covenant God of Israel, not a generic deity.
• spake (דָּבַר, dabar): This word means "to speak" or "to declare," highlighting that what follows is a direct communication, not just a thought or impression.
• Moses (מֹשֶׁה, Mosheh): Naming Moses specifically reminds the reader that he is the chosen leader and the one through whom God communicates His laws.
• saying (לֵּאמֹר, le’mor): This word introduces the content of God's speech, preparing the reader for the specific instructions that are about to be given.

Why Leviticus 5:14 matters

• Leviticus 5:14 marks a clear break and signals that a new set of instructions is beginning, helping the reader track the structure of the laws in Leviticus.
• The use of God's personal name (יְהוָ֖ה, Yahweh) underlines the authority and seriousness of the message, distinguishing it from human tradition or opinion.
• By specifying Moses as the recipient, the verse reinforces his unique role as the mediator between God and the people, which is a key theme throughout the book.