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A
book of law codes primarily concerned
with priestly practices, including instructions
for sacrifices and distinguishing between
clean and unclean.
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Priests
offered gifts and sacrifices on the altar
Horned
altar from Megiddo
10th-9th cent. B.C.
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Lev
1-16 is the priestly code.
Leviticus is named for the tribe of Levi, which
was a priestly tribe. Priestly actions are
central in the first part of the book. Specific
sections include laws for sacrifices (Lev 1-7),
the ordination of priests (Lev 8-10), regulations
concerning impurities (Lev 11-15), and rites for
making atonement (Lev 16).
Lev
17-27 is the holiness code. The
responsibility of the whole community receives
greater attention in the second part of Leviticus.
The central idea is that the people of God must
be holy since God is holy. Laws are given
concerning sexual relations, loving one's neighbor
(19:18), festivals, and redemption of property.
Lev
16 - Day of Atonement
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