Leviticus 17:7 Meaning and Explanation
“And they shall no more offer their sacrifices unto devils, after whom they have gone a whoring. This shall be a statute for ever unto them throughout their generations.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Israel is prohibited from offering sacrifices to demons and must keep this law forever.
The Context of Leviticus 17:7
God forbids sacrifice to demons and demands exclusive worship.
What Does Leviticus 17:7 Mean?
The prohibition condemns an earlier practice where Israel worshipped and sacrificed to demons or false gods in the wilderness or before covenant. The term 'whoring' describes infidelity to the Lord, using marital language to convey covenant betrayal.
By designating this law as 'a statute for ever,' the Lord makes it permanent and binding across all generations. The eternity clause emphasizes that exclusive worship belongs to the Lord alone, not to demons or any other power.
Leviticus 17:7 in the Original Language
śa'irim (שְׂעִירִים), 'devils' or 'goat demons' — refers to demons or false deities that Israel had been tempted to worship.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 17:7
What does Leviticus 17:7 mean?
Israel is prohibited from offering sacrifices to demons and must keep this law forever.
What is the context of Leviticus 17:7?
God forbids sacrifice to demons and demands exclusive worship.