Leviticus 9:6

And Moses said, This is the thing which the Lord commanded that ye should do: and the glory of the Lord shall appear unto you.

Leviticus 9:6 (KJV)

Context

This verse stands at the climax of the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. The book of Leviticus records the laws and rituals God gave Israel through Moses, especially those that would make the nation holy. In Leviticus 8, the seven-day ordination ceremony is described, with sacrifices and anointing. Now, on the eighth day, the people gather to see the priests begin their ministry.

Moses speaks to the people, telling them that what they are about to do is not his own idea. It is “the thing which the LORD commanded.” The sacrifices and rituals in Leviticus 9:1-5 were given to make atonement for Aaron, his sons, and the people, and to establish a right relationship with God. The command is specific and detailed, showing that worship must follow God’s revealed will, not human preference.

Meaning

The verse sets a clear order: obedience first, then glory. The people are to do what God has commanded, and then the glory of the Lord will appear. This is not a reward for general good behavior, but the result of faithful, precise obedience to God’s instructions. The glory of the Lord is a visible manifestation of His presence and approval, confirming that the prescribed worship is accepted.

Moses acts as the mediator, faithfully transmitting God’s word. The people’s role is to respond in obedient action. The promise is direct: when they obey, they will see God’s glory. This pattern—God commands, His people obey, and His glory is revealed—is central to the passage.

Biblical connections

The appearance of God’s glory is a significant event throughout Scripture, representing His visible presence among His people. Here, it signifies God’s acceptance of the consecration and His choice of Aaron and his sons to serve as priests. The connection between obedience and experiencing God’s presence is a recurring biblical principle, but here it is tied specifically to the inauguration of the Levitical priesthood and the sacrificial system.

Application

While the rituals of Leviticus do not apply directly to believers today, the underlying principle remains. Obedience to God’s commands opens the way for His presence to be known. This calls for careful attention to what God has revealed in Scripture, and a willingness to follow His instructions even when they seem detailed or demanding.

God’s commands are not human inventions; they come from His wisdom and love. When believers obey, they are not earning God’s favor, but they are positioning themselves to experience His glory in their lives. This may not be a visible cloud or fire, but it can be a deep sense of His presence, peace, and guidance.

Reflection

Consider how obedience to God’s Word can lead to a deeper experience of His presence. Are there areas where following God’s commands seems difficult or unnecessary? The promise of this verse encourages trust: when God speaks, He also enables and rewards faithful response. The glory of the Lord appeared to Israel because they did what He commanded; believers today can expect to see His work when they walk in His ways.