Leviticus 17:12 Meaning and Explanation
“Therefore I said unto the children of Israel, No soul of you shall eat blood, neither shall any stranger that sojourneth among you eat blood.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Lord's absolute rule: no Israelite or resident alien may consume blood.
The Context of Leviticus 17:12
The blood prohibition is universal and divinely grounded.
What Does Leviticus 17:12 Mean?
The 'therefore' links this prohibition directly to the theological truth: because blood is life and is reserved for atonement, it is never food. The rule covers 'every soul'—emphasizing universal and personal accountability across the entire community.
The explicit inclusion of strangers once again demonstrates that living in Israel means accepting the Lord's standards. Covenant residence carries covenant obligations, including this fundamental restriction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 17:12
What does Leviticus 17:12 mean?
The Lord's absolute rule: no Israelite or resident alien may consume blood.
What is the context of Leviticus 17:12?
The blood prohibition is universal and divinely grounded.