Leviticus 17:8

KJV

And thou shalt say unto them, Whatsoever man [there be] of the house of Israel, or of the strangers which sojourn among you, that offereth a burnt offering or sacrifice,

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt say {H559} unto them, Whatsoever man {H376} there be of the house {H1004} of Israel {H3478}, or of the strangers {H1616} which sojourn {H1481} among {H8432} you, that offereth {H5927} a burnt offering {H5930} or sacrifice {H2077},

Complete Jewish Bible

"Also tell them, 'When someone from the community of Isra'el or one of the foreigners living with you offers a burnt offering or sacrifice

Berean Standard Bible

Tell them that if anyone from the house of Israel or any foreigner living among them offers a burnt offering or a sacrifice

American Standard Version

And thou shalt say unto them, Whatsoever man there be of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among them, that offereth a burnt-offering or sacrifice,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 17:8 articulates a foundational divine decree, mandating that every individual within the Israelite community—both native-born Israelites and resident aliens—must bring all their burnt offerings and other sacrifices exclusively to the Tabernacle. This command was essential for establishing and preserving the sanctity and uniformity of worship, actively countering the syncretistic tendencies prevalent in the ancient world, and ensuring that all acts of sacrifice were conducted in strict accordance with God's prescribed rituals and under the direct supervision of the Aaronic priesthood, thereby centralizing the covenant people's access to and communion with Yahweh.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 17 marks a significant transition in the book, serving as the introduction to the "Holiness Code" (Leviticus 17-26). This section shifts focus from the detailed instructions for priestly rituals and sacrifices (Leviticus 1-16) to the broader principles of holiness that govern the daily lives and worship practices of the entire Israelite community. The immediate preceding verses, particularly [Leviticus 17:3-7](/leviticus/17-3-7 "Leviticus 17:3-7 - Prohibition of Sacrificing Outside the Camp"), lay the groundwork by prohibiting the slaughter of animals for consumption anywhere other than at the Tabernacle door, explicitly stating that failure to do so would be considered bloodguilt, akin to sacrificing to "goat-demons" (KJV: "devils"). This radical centralization was designed to prevent idolatry and ensure that the lifeblood of the animal, representing its life, was properly handled as belonging to the Lord. Verse 8 extends this principle from general animal slaughter to all specific categories of animal offerings, such as burnt offerings and other sacrifices, reinforcing that *any* act of cultic worship involving animal sacrifice must occur at the divinely appointed sanctuary, thus ensuring accountability, purity, and adherence to the covenant for all members of the camp.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Ancient Near East, it was common for various peoples to offer sacrifices at numerous local altars, high places, and sacred groves dedicated to a multitude of deities. This decentralized worship often led to syncretism, where elements of different religious traditions blended, and to various forms of idolatry, including practices involving spirit worship or fertility cults. Israel, however, was called to a unique, exclusive covenant relationship with Yahweh, the one true God, who demanded singular devotion. The command in [Leviticus 17:8](/leviticus/17-8 "Leviticus 17:8 - Centralized Sacrifice for All") and its surrounding regulations directly counter these prevalent pagan customs, particularly those involving unauthorized blood rituals and sacrifices to false gods. The explicit inclusion of "strangers which sojourn among you" (Hebrew: *ger*) is profoundly significant. It highlights God's universal claim to worship and His welcoming nature to those non-Israelites who chose to reside within the covenant community and commit to its laws. These resident aliens were not merely transient visitors but integrated members of society, expected to adhere to fundamental religious and moral statutes, a principle echoed in other Pentateuchal laws concerning their rights and responsibilities (e.g., [Numbers 15:15-16](/numbers/15-15-16 "Numbers 15:15-16 - One Law for Native and Sojourner") and [Deuteronomy 12:5-7](/deuteronomy/12-5-7 "Deuteronomy 12:5-7 - The Chosen Place of Worship")). This centralization of worship at the Tabernacle (and later the Temple) was thus a cornerstone of Israelite identity, religious purity, and national distinctiveness, designed to safeguard the nation from the pervasive idolatrous practices of their neighbors.
* **Key Themes:** Leviticus 17:8 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Holiness**, emphasizing that God's people must maintain a distinct and consecrated lifestyle, particularly in their approach to Him in worship. This command establishes parameters for holy worship, ensuring it is performed according to God's standards, not human invention. Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **Centralized Worship**, a principle vital for preventing idolatry and ensuring the purity of Israel's devotion to Yahweh. By requiring all sacrifices at one location, God created a single point of access and accountability, preventing the proliferation of unauthorized altars and syncretistic practices. This theme is further developed in [Deuteronomy 12](/deuteronomy/12 "Deuteronomy 12 - The Chosen Place of Worship") with the command to worship at "the place the Lord your God will choose." Thirdly, the verse highlights the theme of **Inclusivity within the Covenant Community**. The explicit mention of "strangers which sojourn among you" demonstrates that God's covenant demands extended beyond ethnic Israelites to all who chose to align themselves with His people and His ways, foreshadowing the universal scope of God's redemptive plan to include people from "every nation, tribe, people and language" ([Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - A Multitude from Every Nation")). Finally, it touches upon the theme of **Atonement and Access to God**, as sacrifices were the primary means by which sin was addressed and fellowship with God was maintained. The centralization ensured that these vital acts were performed correctly, maintaining the integrity of the covenant relationship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Man (Hebrew, _ʼîysh'_):** This term refers to an individual, a male person, and is often used broadly to denote "anyone" or "whoever." In this context, it emphasizes the personal responsibility and accountability of every single individual within the community, whether native-born or foreign, to adhere to the divine command concerning sacrifices. It signifies that this law is not merely for the collective but for each person.
* **Strangers (Hebrew, _gêr'_):** Derived from the root "to sojourn," this term specifically denotes a "resident alien" or "sojourner." Unlike a temporary visitor, a *ger* was a non-Israelite who had permanently settled within the Israelite community, often seeking refuge or economic opportunity, and had committed to living under Israelite law. Their inclusion here is crucial, demonstrating that the fundamental religious obligations of the covenant extended beyond ethnic boundaries to all who chose to dwell among God's people and partake in their life.
* **Burnt Offering (Hebrew, _ʻôlâh'_):** This term, meaning "that which goes up," refers to a specific type of animal sacrifice that was entirely consumed by fire on the altar, with the smoke ascending to God. It was a voluntary offering, symbolizing complete dedication, devotion, and propitiation for general sin. Its total consumption signified the worshipper's complete surrender and the offering's full acceptance by God.
* **Sacrifice (Hebrew, _zebach'_):** This is a broader term for an animal offering, literally meaning "slaughter." While it can refer generally to any animal offering, it often specifically denotes a "peace offering" or "fellowship offering" (also called *shelem*), where only a portion was burned on the altar, and the remainder was eaten by the priests and/or the worshipper. It symbolized communion, fellowship, and thanksgiving with God and fellow Israelites. The use of both "burnt offering" and "sacrifice" in this verse serves as a comprehensive merism, encompassing all major categories of animal offerings and ensuring no form of animal cultic worship is excluded from the centralized command.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt say unto them":** This opening phrase functions as a divine imperative, indicating that the following instruction is a direct command from Yahweh, delivered through Moses, to be communicated authoritatively to the entire congregation. It underscores the non-negotiable and binding nature of the forthcoming law, highlighting its importance for the purity and order of the covenant community.
* **"Whatsoever man [there be] of the house of Israel":** This clause specifies the primary audience of the command—the native-born Israelites, those who are descendants of Jacob and members of the twelve tribes. It establishes their inherent and foundational responsibility to adhere to God's laws concerning proper worship and sacrifice, given their unique covenant relationship with Yahweh.
* **"or of the strangers which sojourn among you":** This vital addition expands the scope of the command beyond ethnic Israelites to include the *ger*, the resident aliens who had chosen to live within Israelite society. This demonstrates the inclusivity of God's moral and cultic requirements, signifying that all who dwell within the sphere of the covenant community, regardless of their ethnic origin, are expected to abide by its fundamental religious statutes and participate in its centralized worship.
* **"that offereth a burnt offering or sacrifice":** This concluding clause defines the specific actions to which the command applies. By naming both the "burnt offering" (*‘olah*) and "sacrifice" (*zebach*), the text comprehensively covers the two primary categories of animal offerings. This ensures that all forms of animal cultic worship, whether for complete dedication, atonement, or fellowship, are brought to the divinely appointed, centralized place of worship, thereby preventing unauthorized, idolatrous, or otherwise impure practices.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 17:8 masterfully employs several literary techniques to convey its authoritative and inclusive message. The verse begins with a **Divine Edict** or **Legal Formula** ("And thou shalt say unto them"), immediately establishing the absolute authority and non-negotiable nature of the command. This is followed by a universal declaration ("Whatsoever man..."), which functions as a **Categorical Statement**, leaving no ambiguity about the breadth of its application. The inclusion of both "the house of Israel" and "the strangers which sojourn among you" demonstrates a powerful **Juxtaposition** and **Inclusivity**, highlighting that God's law transcends ethnic boundaries and applies equally to all who are part of His covenant community. This dual address emphasizes the unity of the people under God's law. Furthermore, the phrase "burnt offering or sacrifice" functions as a **Merism**, encompassing all types of animal offerings by naming two prominent categories, thereby ensuring comprehensive coverage and preventing any loopholes for unauthorized worship. The precise and repetitive nature of such legal language throughout the Holiness Code also contributes to its didactic purpose, embedding these principles deeply within the community's consciousness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 17:8 is a pivotal verse for understanding the theology of centralized worship and the expansive nature of God's covenant community. By unequivocally mandating that all sacrifices be brought to the Tabernacle, God established a singular, holy point of contact for His people, a measure designed to prevent the pervasive syncretism and idolatry common in the ancient world. This centralization underscored God's absolute uniqueness, His sovereignty, and His sole right to dictate the terms of worship. It taught Israel that access to Him was not arbitrary or decentralized but strictly according to His divine prescription. Moreover, the explicit inclusion of "strangers" (resident aliens) in this fundamental cultic command reveals a profound aspect of God's character: His heart for all peoples. It demonstrates that His covenant laws and the blessings of His presence were not exclusively for one ethnic group but extended to any who chose to align themselves with His people and His ways, foreshadowing the universal reach of His redemptive plan that would ultimately embrace all nations. This inclusivity also served as a practical witness to the surrounding peoples, inviting them into the light of Yahweh's truth.

* [Deuteronomy 12:5-7](/deuteronomy/12-5-7 "Deuteronomy 12:5-7 - The Chosen Place for Worship") - Reinforces the principle of a single, chosen place for worship in the promised land, to prevent scattered, idolatrous altars and ensure pure devotion.
* [Numbers 15:15-16](/numbers/15-15-16 "Numbers 15:15-16 - One Law for Native and Sojourner") - Affirms that the same statutes and ordinances apply to both the native-born Israelite and the resident alien, emphasizing equality and unity under God's law.
* [Isaiah 56:6-7](/isaiah/56-6-7 "Isaiah 56:6-7 - God's House for All Nations") - Prophesies a future where foreigners who join themselves to the Lord will be brought to God's holy mountain, and their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on His altar, for His house "shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the literal act of offering animal sacrifices has been superseded and fulfilled in the atoning work of Jesus Christ, the profound principles embedded in Leviticus 17:8 remain profoundly relevant for believers today, guiding our understanding of worship, purity, and community. We are called to worship God exclusively on His terms, approaching Him through the singular, perfect, and sufficient sacrifice of Jesus Christ, rather than according to our own preferences, cultural trends, or human wisdom. This means prioritizing His revealed Word as our ultimate guide for faith and practice, ensuring that our worship—both corporate and individual—is pure, authentic, and centered entirely on Him. The inclusion of "strangers" in this ancient command serves as a powerful and enduring reminder that God's family is open to all who believe, regardless of their background, ethnicity, social standing, or past. In Christ, the dividing walls have been broken down ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")), calling us to radical inclusivity, welcoming and embracing all who genuinely seek to follow Him into the unity of the body of Christ. Furthermore, the command to centralize worship was a crucial safeguard against idolatry; for us, this translates to diligently guarding our hearts against anything that might usurp God's rightful, supreme place in our lives, whether it be material possessions, personal achievements, relationships, or even good causes that subtly overshadow our singular devotion to the Lord. Our worship must be exclusive, undivided, and offered from a pure heart, just as God has always demanded.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be tempted to "decentralize" my worship of God in my daily life, allowing other priorities, desires, or cultural influences to subtly dilute my singular devotion to Him?**
* **How does the explicit inclusion of "strangers" in this ancient command challenge my understanding and practice of inclusivity, hospitality, and unity within the contemporary body of Christ?**
* **What "sacrifices" (of time, resources, talents, ambitions, or self-will) am I called to bring to God today, and how can I ensure they are offered according to His will and for His glory, rather than my own?**

### FAQ

**Why was it so important for all sacrifices to be brought to the Tabernacle?**

Answer: The centralization of sacrifices at the Tabernacle (and later the Temple) was profoundly important for several theological and practical reasons. Primarily, it served as a critical safeguard against idolatry and syncretism, preventing the Israelites from offering sacrifices to pagan deities or engaging in unauthorized rituals common in the surrounding cultures, as explicitly warned in [Leviticus 17:7](/leviticus/17-7 "Leviticus 17:7 - Sacrificing to Goat-Demons"). It also ensured the purity, integrity, and uniformity of worship, as all offerings were made under the strict supervision of the Levitical priests, according to God's precise instructions detailed in the Law. This system maintained accountability, taught the people the gravity and seriousness of approaching a holy God, and powerfully reinforced the unique, exclusive covenant relationship between Yahweh and Israel, signifying that He alone was their God and the sole recipient of their worship.

**Who were the "strangers which sojourn among you," and what was their status in Israelite society?**

Answer: The "strangers which sojourn among you" refers to non-Israelites (Hebrew: *ger*) who had permanently settled within the Israelite community, distinguishing them from casual visitors or transient foreign merchants. These individuals had chosen to reside among God's people and were considered an integral part of the society, even though they did not have tribal land inheritance. While their status differed from native-born Israelites in some respects, they were afforded certain protections and rights under Israelite law, particularly concerning justice, fair treatment, and social welfare ([Deuteronomy 10:18-19](/deuteronomy/10-18-19 "Deuteronomy 10:18-19 - God Loves the Sojourner")). Crucially, as seen in [Leviticus 17:8](/leviticus/17-8 "Leviticus 17:8 - Centralized Sacrifice for All") and other passages like [Numbers 15:15](/numbers/15-15 "Numbers 15:15 - One Law for All"), they were expected to abide by the fundamental moral and cultic laws of the covenant, including the proper procedures for sacrifice and observance of the Sabbath. Their inclusion in such core religious commands highlights the universal reach of God's law and His welcoming posture towards those who chose to join His people and embrace His ways.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 17:8, with its profound emphasis on a centralized place for sacrifice and the radical inclusion of all people within the worship community, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, the divinely appointed locus where all offerings were to be brought, was a tangible "shadow" pointing to the true dwelling place of God, which is found in Christ Himself, for [the Word became flesh and dwelt among us](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"). Jesus is the singular, perfect, and final sacrifice to whom all previous animal offerings pointed, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). His one-time, all-sufficient offering on the cross, made "once for all" ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's One Sacrifice")), rendered the continual animal sacrifices obsolete and provided perfect atonement for sin. Furthermore, just as the "strangers" were welcomed to participate in Israel's worship, Christ's sacrifice transcends all human distinctions, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility between Jew and Gentile, thereby creating one new humanity in Himself ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). Now, all who believe, regardless of their ethnic, social, or historical background, are invited to draw near to God through Him, our great High Priest, who ministers in the true heavenly sanctuary ([Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Jesus the Great High Priest")). We no longer bring animal sacrifices to a physical temple, but rather offer spiritual sacrifices of praise, thanksgiving, and good deeds, presenting our very lives as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, through Christ our Lord ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")).

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

Leviticus 1:2

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, If any man of you bring an offering unto the LORD, ye shall bring your offering of the cattle, [even] of the herd, and of the flock.

Leviticus 1:3

¶ If his offering [be] a burnt sacrifice of the herd, let him offer a male without blemish: he shall offer it of his own voluntary will at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation before the LORD.

Malachi 1:11

For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name [shall be] great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense [shall be] offered unto my name, and a pure offering: for my name [shall be] great among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts.

Leviticus 17:4

And bringeth it not unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, to offer an offering unto the LORD before the tabernacle of the LORD; blood shall be imputed unto that man; he hath shed blood; and that man shall be cut off from among his people:

2 Samuel 24:25

And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. So the LORD was intreated for the land, and the plague was stayed from Israel.

1 Samuel 16:2

And Samuel said, How can I go? if Saul hear [it], he will kill me. And the LORD said, Take an heifer with thee, and say, I am come to sacrifice to the LORD.

1 Samuel 7:9

And Samuel took a sucking lamb, and offered [it for] a burnt offering wholly unto the LORD: and Samuel cried unto the LORD for Israel; and the LORD heard him.