Leviticus 26:46

These are the statutes and judgments and laws, which the Lord made between him and the children of Israel in mount Sinai by the hand of Moses.

Leviticus 26:46 (KJV)

Context

Leviticus 26 presents the blessings for obedience and the consequences for disobedience. This verse concludes that chapter and the larger legal section of the book, serving as a summary and seal. It declares that the statutes, judgments, and laws given throughout Leviticus were established by the Lord between Himself and the children of Israel at Mount Sinai through Moses.

Meaning

The threefold phrase “statutes, judgments, and laws” encompasses the ceremonial, moral, and judicial aspects of the law, showing that God’s instruction covered every area of life. The verse emphasizes that these were made “between him and the children of Israel,” signifying a solemn covenant relationship. The location “in mount Sinai” points back to the covenant established in Exodus 19-24, where the people agreed to obey God’s commandments.

The phrase “by the hand of Moses” underscores Moses’ role as the mediator between God and the people. He received the commandments and laws from God and conveyed them to the Israelites, serving as a leader and teacher who instructed them in God’s ways. This highlights God’s authority as the lawgiver and establishes the divine origin of the laws, which were designed to guide the Israelites in worship, daily life, and interactions with one another.

Biblical connections

This verse is a transition, closing the legal section of Leviticus and preparing for the vows and dedications in Leviticus 27. The Targums of Onkelos and Jonathan render “between him” as “between his Word and the children of Israel,” a Jewish interpretive tradition that may prefigure the New Testament understanding of Christ as the mediator. For the Christian reader, this points to Jesus Christ, through whom believers approach God.

Application

Leviticus 26:46 reminds us of the importance of the covenant and the laws established by God. They provided a framework for the Israelites’ relationship with God and with one another. This verse affirms the divine origin of the laws and underscores God’s authority as the lawgiver. It also reminds us of the significance of the covenant and the importance of following God’s laws in our lives, while pointing to the ultimate mediator, Jesus Christ.

Reflection

As we consider this verse, we are reminded that God’s Word is permanent and divinely given. The laws given to Israel were not temporary but were part of God’s unfolding plan. Through Christ, we have a mediator who fulfills the law and enables us to live in covenant relationship with God.