Leviticus 17:7

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they shall no more offer {H2076} their sacrifices {H2077} unto devils {H8163}, after {H310} whom they have gone a whoring {H2181}. This shall be a statute {H2708} for ever {H5769} unto them throughout their generations {H1755}.

Complete Jewish Bible

No longer will they offer sacrifices to the goat-demons, before whom they prostitute themselves! This is a permanent regulation for them through all their generations.'

Berean Standard Bible

They must no longer offer their sacrifices to the goat demons to which they have prostituted themselves. This will be a permanent statute for them for the generations to come.’

American Standard Version

And they shall no more sacrifice their sacrifices unto the he-goats, after which they play the harlot. This shall be a statute forever unto them throughout their generations.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 17:7 issues a severe prohibition against the Israelites offering sacrifices to "devils" or "hairy ones," explicitly condemning this practice as spiritual prostitution. This divine command underscores God's unwavering demand for exclusive worship, centralizing all legitimate sacrifices at the tabernacle to prevent syncretism and maintain the holiness of the covenant community. The verse establishes this as an eternal statute, emphasizing the timeless and unchanging nature of God's opposition to idolatry and His requirement for singular devotion from His people across all generations.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 17 marks a pivotal transition within the book, shifting from detailed instructions regarding priestly duties and the mechanics of sacrificial offerings (Leviticus 1-16) to laws concerning the holiness of the people in their daily lives and interactions with God. The preceding verses ([Leviticus 17:1-6](/leviticus/17-1-6 "Leviticus 17:1-6 - Centralization of Sacrifice")) establish the foundational principle that all slaughtered animals, whether for food or as offerings, must be brought to the tabernacle door and presented to the Lord. This centralization of worship was crucial to prevent unauthorized sacrifices, ensure proper atonement, and maintain ritual purity. Verse 7 directly follows this mandate, addressing a specific and egregious violation: offering sacrifices to pagan deities, which would bypass the tabernacle entirely and defile the entire system of worship God had instituted. The subsequent verses ([Leviticus 17:8-16](/leviticus/17-8-16 "Leviticus 17:8-16 - The Sanctity of Blood")) continue to elaborate on the sanctity of blood, prohibiting its consumption and emphasizing its vital role in atonement, further reinforcing the sacred boundaries of Israel's relationship with God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The command in Leviticus 17:7 is deeply embedded in the historical and cultural realities of ancient Israel. Having recently departed from Egypt, where they were exposed to a vast pantheon of gods and diverse cultic practices, and now on the cusp of entering Canaan, a land saturated with idolatry, the Israelites faced immense pressure to assimilate. The "devils" mentioned here, translated from the Hebrew *se'irim*, refer to goat-demons or satyr-like deities, often associated with desolate places, wilderness spirits, and fertility cults common in the ancient Near East. These entities were worshipped by surrounding nations, and some Israelites had evidently adopted such practices, as hinted at by the phrase "after whom they have gone a whoring." This spiritual "whoring" was a direct violation of the first two commandments given at Mount Sinai, as recorded in [Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3-5 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First Two Commandments"), which explicitly forbid having other gods or making idols. The prohibition in [Leviticus 17:7](/leviticus/17-7 "Leviticus 17:7 - Prohibition Against Sacrificing to Demons") served as a critical safeguard to preserve Israel's unique covenant identity and prevent the spiritual syncretism that plagued many ancient cultures, ensuring their exclusive allegiance to Yahweh, the one true God.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among them is the theme of **Holiness**, emphasizing God's absolute purity and His demand for His people to reflect that holiness in their worship and conduct. The prohibition against sacrificing to "devils" directly upholds the theme of **Exclusive Worship**, establishing Yahweh as the sole legitimate object of Israel's devotion, a concept central to the covenant relationship (cf. [Deuteronomy 6:4-5](/deuteronomy/6-4-5 "Deuteronomy 6:4-5 - The Shema")). It also reinforces the theme of **Covenant Fidelity**, portraying idolatry as a profound act of betrayal and spiritual "whoring," akin to marital infidelity, which undermines the very foundation of God's relationship with Israel. Finally, the declaration that this is a "statute for ever" highlights the **Enduring Nature of God's Law** and His unchanging character, particularly His opposition to anything that diminishes His glory or usurps His rightful place.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Offer (Hebrew, _zâbach'_):** This primitive root refers to the act of slaughtering an animal, typically in the context of sacrifice. It encompasses both the physical act of killing and the religious ritual of presenting an offering to a deity. In this verse, it highlights that the Israelites were performing the most sacred act of worship—sacrifice—but directing it towards illicit, demonic entities rather than to Yahweh, thereby perverting its true purpose and defiling themselves.
* **Devils (Hebrew, _sâʻîyr'_):** This word literally means "hairy ones" or "he-goats." In this context, it refers to goat-demons or satyr-like entities, often associated with desolate places and pagan worship in the ancient Near East. These were believed to be malevolent spirits or deities. The KJV's translation as "devils" accurately conveys the biblical understanding that behind pagan idols lie demonic forces, as later affirmed in the New Testament (cf. [1 Corinthians 10:20](/1_corinthians/10-20 "1 Corinthians 10:20 - Sacrifices to Demons")). Sacrificing to them was a direct affront to God and an invitation of evil influence.
* **Gone a whoring (Hebrew, _zânâh'_):** This verb is a powerful and frequently used metaphor throughout the Old Testament to describe spiritual unfaithfulness or idolatry. It likens Israel's turning away from God to a wife's betrayal of her husband through prostitution or adultery. This imagery emphasizes the intimate, covenantal relationship between God and Israel, portraying idolatry not merely as a ritualistic error but as a profound act of betrayal and spiritual infidelity against their divine Husband. It highlights the deeply personal and relational nature of their sin, implying a violation of trust and sacred vows.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they shall no more offer their sacrifices unto devils":** This clause issues a direct, unequivocal, and permanent prohibition. It commands the Israelites to cease a practice—the offering of sacrifices—that was evidently already occurring, but which was directed towards illicit, pagan entities identified as "devils" or "hairy ones." The emphasis is on the cessation of this highest act of worship when directed away from Yahweh, signifying a decisive break from past idolatrous behaviors and a re-establishment of exclusive worship to the one true God.
* **"after whom they have gone a whoring":** This phrase provides the divine rationale for the prohibition, identifying the worship of "devils" as spiritual prostitution. It exposes the true nature of their idolatry as an act of profound unfaithfulness to the covenant, revealing the depth of their betrayal and the intimate offense committed against God's holiness and His rightful claim over them. This metaphor underscores the relational aspect of their sin, portraying it as a violation of sacred vows.
* **"This shall be a statute for ever unto them throughout their generations":** This concluding declaration elevates the prohibition to the status of a permanent, unchanging law. The phrase "statute for ever" (Hebrew, *chuqqâh ʻôwlâm'*) signifies its perpetual validity and binding nature for all future generations of Israel. It emphasizes that God's demand for exclusive worship and His condemnation of idolatry are not temporary commands but foundational principles of His covenant, enduring through all time and applying to every successive generation.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 17:7 employs several significant literary devices to convey its powerful and enduring message. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, specifically the vivid imagery of "gone a whoring" to describe idolatry. This powerful comparison transforms the abstract concept of spiritual unfaithfulness into the concrete and emotionally charged act of prostitution or adultery. It underscores the intimate, covenantal bond between God and Israel, portraying their turning to other gods as a profound betrayal of their sacred vows, akin to a wife's infidelity to her husband. This metaphor evokes strong feelings of shame, betrayal, and broken trust, highlighting the severe and deeply personal nature of the sin. Additionally, the phrase "This shall be a statute for ever unto them throughout their generations" functions as **Legal Language**, emphasizing the enduring and immutable nature of this divine command. It imbues the prohibition with absolute authority and permanence, signaling that God's opposition to idolatry is not a temporary decree but a foundational and perpetual requirement for His people across all time. The use of the term "devils" (Hebrew *se'irim*) also carries a strong element of **Symbolism**, representing not just pagan deities but the malevolent spiritual forces behind them, underscoring the spiritual warfare inherent in the rejection of Yahweh.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 17:7 is a profound declaration of God's absolute sovereignty and His demand for exclusive worship, echoing the very first commandments given at Sinai. It establishes idolatry not merely as a ritual error but as spiritual adultery, a direct betrayal of the covenant relationship between Yahweh and His people. This theme of exclusive devotion and the abhorrence of syncretism is foundational to Israel's identity and their call to be a holy nation set apart for God. The perpetual nature of this statute underscores that God's character and His requirements for worship are unchanging, serving as a timeless warning against anything that would usurp His rightful place in the hearts and lives of His people. It reveals God's zealous love and His desire for an undivided heart from His covenant people.

* [Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3-5 "The First Two Commandments")
* [Deuteronomy 6:4-5](/deuteronomy/6-4-5 "The Shema: Love the Lord Your God")
* [Hosea 4:12](/hosea/4-12 "Spiritual Harlotry")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific practice of sacrificing to goat-demons may seem distant to modern believers, the underlying principle of Leviticus 17:7 remains profoundly relevant for our spiritual lives today. Idolatry, at its core, is anything that takes the place of God in our ultimate allegiance, affection, and trust. In contemporary society, this can manifest in subtle yet pervasive ways: the relentless pursuit of wealth, career success, social status, personal comfort, or even the worship of self. Anything that becomes the primary source of our security, identity, or joy apart from God functions as an idol, drawing our hearts away from Him. This ancient statute calls us to a radical self-examination, prompting us to identify and dismantle any "altars" we might have unwittingly erected in our lives. It reminds us that true spiritual purity and genuine intimacy with God require exclusive devotion, a wholehearted commitment to Him alone. Our worship must be singular, our trust unwavering, and our affections undivided, ensuring that God truly holds the preeminent place in every aspect of our existence, just as He demanded from ancient Israel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What modern "devils" or idols might subtly compete for my ultimate allegiance and affection today?**
* **In what ways might I be "going a whoring" spiritually by seeking satisfaction, security, or identity outside of God?**
* **How can I cultivate a more exclusive and wholehearted devotion to God in my daily life, ensuring He remains preeminent?**
* **What practical steps can I take to dismantle any idols I've identified and re-center my life on Christ?**

### FAQ
**What does "devils" (se'irim) mean in this context, and why were Israelites sacrificing to them?**

Answer: The Hebrew word *se'irim* literally means "hairy ones" or "goats," referring to goat-demons or satyr-like spirits believed to inhabit desolate places. These were pagan deities or demonic entities worshipped in the ancient Near East, often associated with fertility cults and illicit magical practices. The Israelites, having lived among Egyptians and being surrounded by Canaanite cultures, were exposed to and sometimes adopted these pagan customs. Sacrificing to *se'irim* was a form of syncretism, a blending of their covenant faith with pagan superstitions, driven by a desire for perceived benefits (like fertility or protection) or simply succumbing to the pervasive idolatry of the surrounding nations, directly violating the commands given in [Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3-5 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First Two Commandments") and [Deuteronomy 12:2-4](/deuteronomy/12-2-4 "Deuteronomy 12:2-4 - Destroying Idolatry").

**Why is idolatry described as "going a whoring" or spiritual adultery?**

Answer: This powerful metaphor, common throughout the Old Testament, illustrates the intimate and covenantal relationship God established with Israel. God is portrayed as the faithful husband, and Israel as His bride. When Israel turned to other gods, it was seen as a betrayal of their sacred vows, akin to a wife committing adultery or prostitution. This imagery emphasizes the depth of the offense—it's not just a breaking of rules, but a breaking of a sacred, loving bond. It highlights the emotional and relational devastation caused by unfaithfulness to God, as seen in passages like [Jeremiah 3:9](/jeremiah/3-9 "Jeremiah 3:9 - Israel's Spiritual Harlotry") and [Hosea 1:2](/hosea/1-2 "Hosea 1:2 - Hosea's Marriage as a Metaphor for Israel's Unfaithfulness"). This metaphor underscores God's jealousy for His people's exclusive devotion and the profound pain caused by their spiritual infidelity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 17:7, with its stern prohibition against sacrificing to "devils" and its condemnation of spiritual "whoring," finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Christ. The Old Testament law established a physical separation and demanded exclusive worship of Yahweh to prepare a people for the coming Messiah. Jesus Christ, as the perfect Lamb of God, offered the singular, definitive sacrifice that forever atones for sin, rendering all other sacrifices, especially those to false gods, utterly obsolete and blasphemous. In the New Covenant, the spiritual reality of idolatry is even more acutely defined. Christ demands not just external adherence but the complete surrender of our hearts. The "devils" we are warned against today are often the subtle idols of our hearts: greed, which [Colossians 3:5](/colossians/3-5 "Colossians 3:5 - Idolatry as Greed") identifies as idolatry; the pursuit of self-glory; or anything that usurps Christ's rightful place as Lord. The "whoring" is no longer merely physical acts of pagan worship but any spiritual compromise that diminishes our exclusive devotion to Him. Through Christ, we are called to a new level of purity and fidelity, empowered by the Holy Spirit to "flee from idolatry" ([1 Corinthians 10:14](/1_corinthians/10-14 "1 Corinthians 10:14 - Flee from Idolatry")) and to worship God "in spirit and truth" ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")). He is the true tabernacle, the ultimate sacrifice, and the sole object of our worship, making the "statute for ever" a timeless call to live lives wholly devoted to Him, free from any competing allegiances.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 10:20

But [I say], that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.

Exodus 34:15

Lest thou make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land, and they go a whoring after their gods, and do sacrifice unto their gods, and [one] call thee, and thou eat of his sacrifice;

Deuteronomy 32:17

They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new [gods that] came newly up, whom your fathers feared not.

2 Chronicles 11:15

And he ordained him priests for the high places, and for the devils, and for the calves which he had made.

Psalms 106:37

Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils,

Deuteronomy 31:16

And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, thou shalt sleep with thy fathers; and this people will rise up, and go a whoring after the gods of the strangers of the land, whither they go [to be] among them, and will forsake me, and break my covenant which I have made with them.

Exodus 22:20

He that sacrificeth unto [any] god, save unto the LORD only, he shall be utterly destroyed.