Leviticus 10:13

Leviticus 10:13, part of God’s detailed instructions to Aaron and his surviving sons, Eleazar and Ithamar, outlines their specific portions from the sacrifices. This verse emphasizes the divine provision for the priests and the sacred manner in which these portions were to be consumed within the Tabernacle complex, highlighting the holiness required in all aspects of worship.

Context of Leviticus 10:13

This verse is found within a pivotal and somber chapter. It immediately follows the tragic account of Nadab and Abihu, Aaron’s two elder sons, who were consumed by fire from the LORD for offering "strange fire" (Leviticus 10:1-2). In the immediate aftermath of this severe judgment, Moses relays God's precise commands to Aaron and his remaining sons regarding their priestly duties and entitlements. This reinforces the absolute necessity of strict obedience to God's laws concerning worship and sacrifices, especially concerning holy things. The instructions here are a continuation of the consecration process and establishment of priestly functions outlined in preceding chapters (Leviticus 8-9).

Meaning and Key Themes

• Priestly Provision and Dues: The phrase "it is thy due, and thy sons' due" clearly establishes that a portion of the sacrifices, specifically those "made by fire" (referring here to the sin offering and meat offering from Leviticus 10:12), was divinely appointed for the sustenance of the priests. This underscores God's commitment to providing for those dedicated to His service in the Tabernacle. It was not a charity, but an established right based on their sacred office.
• Holiness and Reverence: The command "ye shall eat it in the holy place" signifies that these portions were considered holy and therefore had to be consumed in a ritually clean environment, usually within the courtyard of the Tabernacle. This specific instruction relates to the eating of the sin offering, which was typically consumed by the priests within the Tabernacle courtyard. It emphasized the sacred nature of the offerings and the need for the priests to maintain ritual purity in all their actions.
• Divine Authority and Obedience: The concluding phrase, "for so I am commanded," highlights that these are not human suggestions but direct, non-negotiable divine mandates given to Moses. This reiterates the supremacy of God’s law and the importance of absolute obedience, a lesson powerfully reinforced by the recent fate of Nadab and Abihu.

Linguistic Insights

The term "holy place" (Hebrew: maqom qadosh) refers to the consecrated area of the Tabernacle where sacred activities took place, emphasizing its separation and dedication to God. The word for "due" (Hebrew: chuqqah) denotes a fixed statute, ordinance, or allotment, reinforcing that this was an established divine right and not merely a customary practice.

Practical Application

Leviticus 10:13 provides enduring lessons for believers today:

• God Provides for His Servants: Just as God provided for the Old Testament priests, He continues to provide for those who faithfully serve Him in various capacities. This can take many forms, spiritual and physical.
• Reverence for Sacred Things: The strictness surrounding the eating of holy portions reminds us of the need for reverence and respect in our approach to God, His Word, and His worship.
• Importance of Obedience: The context of this verse, following the tragic disobedience of Nadab and Abihu, profoundly emphasizes the necessity of strict obedience to God’s revealed will. Our service and worship must align with His commands, not our own preferences or innovations.