Leviticus 6:18 – “Any male descendant of Aaron may eat it. For all generations to come it is his perpetual share of the food offerings presented to the Lord. Whatever touches them will become holy.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Leviticus 6:18 outlines specific instructions about who may partake in the offerings made to God. According to this verse, only male descendants of Aaron, who were part of the priestly line, were allowed to eat the portion of the offerings designated for them. This privilege was not a one-time event but a perpetual right, passed down through generations. The verse also includes the significant statement that anything or anyone who touches these offerings will become holy. This emphasizes the sacred nature of the offerings and the holiness required of those who handle or consume them.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the descendants of Aaron, from the tribe of Levi, were set apart as priests to serve in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. Their role was to mediate between God and the people, offering sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the worship practices. As part of their service, the priests were provided with a portion of certain offerings, which served as their sustenance. This arrangement highlighted the close relationship between the priests’ service and their provision, showing that those who served God were supported by the offerings brought by the people. The idea that anything touching the offering would become holy reinforced the sacredness of the priesthood and the offerings themselves.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Leviticus 6:18 emphasizes the concept of holiness and the idea that those who are set apart to serve God are given special privileges and responsibilities. The verse highlights the idea of a “perpetual share,” indicating that God’s provision for His servants is ongoing and reliable. The statement that whatever touches the offerings will become holy suggests that holiness is both powerful and contagious; it can extend to those who come into contact with what is dedicated to God. This concept teaches us that holiness is not just about separation from sin but also about being consecrated for God’s purposes.
Literary Analysis
Leviticus 6:18 is part of a larger set of instructions regarding the sacrificial system and the duties of the priests. The verse is prescriptive, focusing on the rights of the priests and the sanctity of the offerings. The use of the word “perpetual” underscores the timeless nature of these instructions, indicating that they were meant to last throughout all generations. The phrase “whatever touches them will become holy” is a powerful statement that adds weight to the verse, emphasizing the transformative nature of holiness.
Biblical Cross-References
This verse connects with other passages in Scripture that discuss the holiness of the priesthood and the offerings. For example, in Leviticus 10:10-11, the priests are instructed to distinguish between the holy and the common, and between the clean and the unclean, reinforcing their role in maintaining the sanctity of worship. In Exodus 29:37, it is stated that whatever touches the altar becomes holy, which echoes the idea presented in Leviticus 6:18. In the New Testament, 1 Peter 2:9 refers to believers as a “royal priesthood,” indicating that the principles of holiness and service extend to all who follow Christ, not just the descendants of Aaron.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Leviticus 6:18 serves as a reminder of the importance of holiness and the privileges and responsibilities that come with serving God. While the specific regulations about who may eat the offerings no longer apply, the principle behind them remains relevant. We are called to live lives that reflect God’s holiness, understanding that our relationship with Him sets us apart for His purposes. This verse also challenges us to consider how we treat the things of God, recognizing that anything dedicated to Him is holy and should be handled with reverence.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 6:18 reflects God’s love in His provision for those who serve Him. By granting the priests a share of the offerings, God ensures that their needs are met as they fulfill their sacred duties. This provision is not just a practical matter but also a sign of God’s care and commitment to those who dedicate their lives to His service. The holiness that extends from the offerings to those who touch them also shows God’s desire to draw His people into a closer relationship with Him, sanctifying them through their connection to what is holy.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Leviticus 6:18 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is our great High Priest. Through His sacrifice, He extends holiness to all who come to Him in faith. In Hebrews 7:24-25, we see that Jesus’ priesthood is perpetual, much like the perpetual share given to the descendants of Aaron. However, Jesus’ priesthood is superior, as He intercedes for us continuously, offering a holiness that transforms and sanctifies us. The idea that holiness can extend to those who touch what is dedicated to God is fully realized in Christ, who makes us holy through His perfect sacrifice.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you apply the principle of holiness in your daily life, especially in how you approach your relationship with God?
- What does it mean for you to be set apart for God’s purposes, as reflected in the idea of a “perpetual share”?
- How does understanding Jesus as our High Priest influence the way you think about holiness and service?
- In what ways can you show reverence for the things of God in your everyday actions?
Leviticus 6:18 reminds us of the holiness that God calls us to, the provision He makes for those who serve Him, and the transformative power of holiness that comes from our relationship with Him. It challenges us to live lives that reflect His holiness, drawing on the example of Jesus Christ, who makes us holy through His eternal priesthood.