Leviticus 9:1-7 | The Way of Scripture

Leviticus 9:1-7

What is promised as Aaron begins his public priestly service?

Berean Standard Bible

1 On the eighth day Moses summoned Aaron and his sons and the elders of Israel. 2 He said to Aaron, “Take for yourself a young bull for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering, both without blemish, and present them before the LORD. 3 Then speak to the Israelites and say, ‘Take a male goat for a sin offering, a calf and a lamb—both a year old and without blemish—for a burnt offering, 4 an ox and a ram for a peace offering to sacrifice before the LORD, and a grain offering mixed with oil. For today the LORD will appear to you.’” 5 So they took what Moses had commanded to the front of the Tent of Meeting, and the whole congregation drew near and stood before the LORD. 6 And Moses said, “This is what the LORD has commanded you to do, so that the glory of the LORD may appear to you.” 7 Then Moses said to Aaron, “Approach the altar and sacrifice your sin offering and your burnt offering to make atonement for yourself and for the people. And sacrifice the people’s offering to make atonement for them, as the LORD has commanded.”

What is the context?

The eighth day follows the seven-day consecration. Moses directs Aaron and the people to bring the specified offerings, and the congregation stands before the Lord.

The promise is that the Lord’s glory will appear. Aaron is told first to make atonement concerning himself and then to offer for the people. The movement from Moses’ actions in chapter 8 to Aaron’s service here is explicit, while Aaron’s need for God’s provision remains.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley emphasizes Aaron taking up the work Moses had performed and the order of offering for himself before the people. The USCCB notes likewise mark the completion of initiation and the beginning of Aaron’s service. Neither the animal’s age nor the eighth day alone establishes a hidden date for a later event.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

Who Shepherds the Church?

A Living Study And Exchange

This site is a living study effort. Thoughtful feedback is welcome, and future study may lead to clarification, correction, or revision.

Public comments, when enabled, will be reviewed before appearing on the site so discussion remains respectful and relevant. The goal is to grow in understanding, test everything by Scripture, and remain willing to change where the text requires it.