Deuteronomy 12:16

Commentary on Deuteronomy 12:16

Deuteronomy 12:16 presents a specific command within the broader context of Israel's future life in the Promised Land. The verse states, "Only ye shall not eat the blood; ye shall pour it upon the earth as water." This instruction emphasizes a profound theological principle concerning the sanctity of life and the proper reverence for God's creation.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Deuteronomy 12 that outlines the laws concerning the centralized place of worship that God would choose for Israel. Prior to this, Israelites could sacrifice animals in various locations, but once they entered Canaan, all sacrifices were to be brought to a single, designated sanctuary. However, the text also makes provisions for the consumption of clean animals for food, distinct from sacrificial meat. Deuteronomy 12:15-16 clarifies that even when animals are slaughtered for ordinary consumption (not sacrifice), the blood must not be eaten. This distinction is crucial, allowing for the consumption of meat while strictly maintaining the prohibition against consuming blood, a command previously given in the Mosaic Law. This regulation serves to differentiate Israelite practices from the pagan rituals of the surrounding nations, who often consumed blood in their idol worship.

Key Themes

• The Sacredness of Life: The primary reason for the prohibition against consuming blood is the theological understanding that "the life of the flesh is in the blood" (Leviticus 17:11). By forbidding the eating of blood, God instilled in His people a deep respect for life itself, acknowledging that life belongs to Him alone. Pouring the blood on the earth signifies a return of life to its Creator.
• Distinction and Holiness: This command reinforced Israel's unique identity as a holy nation set apart for God. Unlike pagan cultures that might consume blood in their rituals, Israel was to demonstrate reverence for life and purity, reflecting God's own holy character. This act of pouring out the blood was a visible sign of their obedience and their separation from idolatrous practices.
• Obedience to Divine Law: The instruction is a direct command from God, requiring unquestioning obedience. It is an act of trust and submission to His divine will, even when the full theological implications might not be immediately apparent. This principle of obedience is a recurring theme throughout Deuteronomy.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "blood" is dam (דם). Its consistent usage throughout the Old Testament, especially in connection with sacrifice and the sanctity of life, underscores its profound significance. The phrase "pour it upon the earth as water" indicates a simple, unceremonious disposal, yet one that acknowledges the blood's sacred nature by not allowing it to be consumed. It's not to be treated as waste, but reverently returned to the ground, symbolizing that life belongs to God.

Related Scriptures

The prohibition against eating blood is a foundational command reiterated throughout the Pentateuch. It is first introduced in the Noachian covenant (Genesis 9:4) and then elaborated upon in the Mosaic Law, particularly in Leviticus 17:10-14, where the penalty for disobedience is explicitly stated. Deuteronomy 12:23-25 further reinforces this by connecting the consumption of blood with sin and the blessing of God. While the ceremonial laws regarding food were fulfilled in Christ and the New Covenant offers freedom from such restrictions (Mark 7:19, Acts 10:15), the early church still advised Gentile converts to abstain from blood for the sake of unity and avoiding offense to Jewish believers (Acts 15:20, Acts 15:29).

Practical Application

Though believers under the New Covenant are not bound by the Old Testament dietary laws, the underlying principles of Deuteronomy 12:16 remain highly relevant. This verse reminds us of:

• The Sanctity of Life: It underscores the profound value of life, both human and animal, as a gift from God. This should foster a deep respect for all life and inform our ethical considerations.
• Obedience and Reverence: It teaches us the importance of obedience to God's commands, even those whose full rationale we may not grasp. It calls us to live reverently before Him, acknowledging His sovereignty over all creation.
• Purity and Distinction: While not about dietary rules for us, it speaks to our call to live a life set apart for God, distinct from the world's values. As believers, we are to reflect God's holiness in our choices and actions, demonstrating our allegiance to Him in all aspects of life, just as Israel was to be distinct in their practices.