Leviticus 26:46

KJV

These [are] the statutes and judgments and laws, which the LORD made between him and the children of Israel in mount Sinai by the hand of Moses.

KJV (with Strong's)

These are the statutes {H2706} and judgments {H4941} and laws {H8451}, which the LORD {H3068} made {H5414} between him and the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} in mount {H2022} Sinai {H5514} by the hand {H3027} of Moses {H4872}.

Complete Jewish Bible

These are the laws, rulings and teachings that ADONAI himself gave to the people of Isra'el on Mount Sinai through Moshe.

Berean Standard Bible

These are the statutes, ordinances, and laws that the LORD established between Himself and the Israelites through Moses on Mount Sinai.

American Standard Version

These are the statutes and ordinances and laws, which Jehovah made between him and the children of Israel in mount Sinai by Moses.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 26:46 serves as a profound concluding statement, encapsulating the entire body of divine instruction given to Israel. It emphatically declares that the "statutes, judgments, and laws" contained within the book are not human constructs but direct emanations from the LORD Himself, established as a covenant between Him and His chosen people at the sacred site of Mount Sinai, mediated through His servant Moses. This verse underscores the divine authority, comprehensive scope, and foundational nature of the Mosaic Law as the blueprint for Israel's covenant relationship with God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 26:46 functions as the concluding colophon to the extensive legal and covenantal material presented throughout the book of Leviticus. The preceding chapters (Leviticus 1-25) meticulously detail the sacrificial system, purity laws, regulations for priests, holy days, and social justice mandates, all designed to establish and maintain Israel's holiness as God's covenant people. Immediately prior to this verse, [Leviticus 26](/leviticus/26 "Leviticus 26 - Blessings and Curses") lays out the solemn blessings promised for obedience (e.g., [Leviticus 26:3-13](/leviticus/26-3 "Leviticus 26:3-13 - Blessings for Obedience")) and the severe curses threatened for disobedience (e.g., [Leviticus 26:14-45](/leviticus/26-14 "Leviticus 26:14-45 - Curses for Disobedience")). Verse 46 thus serves as an authoritative summary, affirming that all these stipulations, from the minutiae of ritual to the grand sweep of covenant consequences, are divinely ordained and binding. It sets the stage for the book of Numbers, which details Israel's journey from Sinai and their continued relationship with God under these laws.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The giving of the Law at Mount Sinai (also known as Horeb) was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, occurring shortly after their miraculous deliverance from slavery in Egypt, as recounted in [Exodus 19](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - God's Appearance at Mount Sinai"). At Sinai, God formally constituted Israel as His special possession, a kingdom of priests and a holy nation ([Exodus 19:5-6](/exodus/19-5 "Exodus 19:5-6 - Israel as God's Special Possession")). The covenant established there, mediated by Moses ([Exodus 24:3-8](/exodus/24-3 "Exodus 24:3-8 - Covenant Ratification")), provided the legal and moral framework for their national life, distinguishing them from surrounding pagan cultures. Unlike the arbitrary laws of human kings, these laws were presented as emanating directly from the divine, ensuring their ultimate authority and reflecting God's perfect character. The wilderness setting of Sinai emphasized Israel's dependence on God and the unique nature of their relationship, forged in divine revelation and solemn agreement.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Statutes (Hebrew, _ḥuqqîm'_):** This term refers to divine decrees, ordinances, or fixed regulations. Often, these are commands whose rationale is not immediately obvious to human reason, but they are to be obeyed simply because God has commanded them. Examples include dietary laws, purity laws, and specific ritual requirements. They emphasize God's absolute sovereignty and the need for His people to conform to His revealed will, even when the underlying logic is not fully grasped.
* **Judgments (Hebrew, _mišpāṭîm'_):** Pertaining to judicial decisions, civil laws, or rules of justice, _mišpāṭîm_ govern human relationships and societal order. These laws are often rooted in principles of fairness, equity, and righteousness, addressing matters such as theft, assault, property rights, and the treatment of the vulnerable. They reflect God's character as a just judge and His desire for a righteous society where all are treated fairly under His divine law.
* **Laws (Hebrew, _tôrōt'_):** This is the plural form of _Torah_, a foundational concept in the Old Testament. While _Torah_ can refer to the entire Pentateuch or the whole body of God's revelation, in this context, _tôrōt_ signifies comprehensive "instructions" or "teachings." It encompasses the full breadth of God's revealed will, including both the specific statutes and judgments, as well as broader moral and ethical principles. The use of the plural emphasizes the multifaceted and all-encompassing nature of God's guidance for every aspect of Israelite life—religious, civil, and moral.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"These [are] the statutes and judgments and laws,"**: This opening phrase serves as a definitive summary, collecting all the preceding divine instructions under three comprehensive categories. It emphasizes the exhaustive nature of God's revelation in Leviticus, covering every facet of Israel's existence—from cultic worship to civil jurisprudence and ethical conduct. The divine origin of these commands is implicitly asserted, setting them apart from human legislation.
* **"which the LORD made between him and the children of Israel"**: This clause highlights the covenantal nature of the Law. It was not merely a set of rules imposed by a distant deity, but a solemn agreement ("made between") establishing a unique and intimate relationship between the sovereign God and His chosen people, Israel. This covenant defined their identity, purpose, and the terms of their fellowship with the Holy One, underscoring God's initiative in establishing this bond.
* **"in mount Sinai by the hand of Moses."**: This final segment specifies the sacred location and the divine mediator through whom the Law was delivered. Mount Sinai, a place of profound divine manifestation and covenant inauguration, lends immense solemnity and authority to the Law's origin. Moses, as God's chosen "hand" or instrument, underscores his unique prophetic and leadership role in conveying God's precise will to the people, ensuring the faithful transmission of the divine word.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 26:46 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound message. It functions primarily as a **Colophon** or **Summary Statement**, marking the definitive conclusion of the extensive legal and covenantal stipulations detailed throughout Leviticus. This structural device provides a sense of closure and reinforces the comprehensive nature of the preceding material. The use of the **Triad** "statutes and judgments and laws" is a powerful form of **Merism**, where three distinct but related terms are used together to represent the totality or comprehensive scope of God's divine instructions. This emphasizes that the Law covers every aspect of Israelite life—religious, civil, and moral. Furthermore, the verse employs **Divine Attribution**, explicitly stating that these laws were "which the LORD made," unequivocally establishing their ultimate source and absolute authority, distinguishing them from any human invention. Finally, the phrase "by the hand of Moses" highlights **Mediation**, acknowledging Moses' crucial role as the divinely appointed intermediary, through whom God's will was communicated to His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 26:46 powerfully encapsulates several core theological themes central to the Old Testament. It underscores the concept of **Divine Revelation**, asserting that God actively communicates His will and character to humanity. The Law is not a human construct but a direct emanation from the LORD, reflecting His perfect holiness, justice, and wisdom. This divine origin establishes the Law's absolute **Authority** and **Timeless Relevance**, serving as the foundational blueprint for Israel's national and spiritual life. Moreover, the phrase "made between him and the children of Israel" highlights the **Covenantal Nature** of God's relationship with His people. The Law is not merely a set of rules but the terms of a sacred agreement, defining Israel's identity as God's chosen nation and outlining the responsibilities inherent in that privileged relationship. It demonstrates God's desire for an ordered, righteous society that reflects His own character.

* [Deuteronomy 4:1-2](/deuteronomy/4-1 "Deuteronomy 4:1-2 - Obeying God's Laws")
* [Exodus 24:3-8](/exodus/24-3 "Exodus 24:3-8 - Ratification of the Covenant at Sinai")
* [Nehemiah 9:13-14](/nehemiah/9-13 "Nehemiah 9:13-14 - God Gives Just Laws and Sabbaths")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Leviticus 26:46 invites us to reflect on the nature of divine authority and the comprehensive scope of God's revealed will. In a world often characterized by moral relativism and subjective truth, this verse stands as a powerful reminder that there is an objective standard of righteousness rooted in the character of a holy God. While believers in Christ are no longer under the Mosaic Law as a system for salvation or justification, the principles embedded within these "statutes, judgments, and laws" remain profoundly relevant. They reveal God's unchanging character—His justice, His holiness, His desire for order, and His commitment to covenant. Understanding the divine origin and comprehensive nature of the Law helps us appreciate the foundation upon which all subsequent biblical revelation, including the New Covenant, is built. It challenges us to consider how we, as God's people today, are called to live in submission to His revealed truth, seeking to understand and apply His timeless principles of righteousness, love, and justice in our own lives and communities, recognizing that true freedom is found in alignment with His perfect will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the divine origin of God's commands (as stated in this verse) impact your view of their authority and relevance for your life today?**
* **In what ways do the "statutes, judgments, and laws" of the Old Testament still offer insights into God's character and His desires for human society?**
* **Considering Moses' role as mediator, how does this foreshadow the ultimate mediator of the New Covenant?**
* **How can we, as believers, apply the principle of comprehensive obedience to God's revealed will in our modern context, even if the specific Mosaic laws are not directly binding?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "Mount Sinai" in this verse?**

Answer: Mount Sinai (also known as Horeb) is profoundly significant as the sacred geographical location where God manifested His presence in a spectacular way and formally inaugurated His covenant with the nation of Israel. It was here that the Ten Commandments were given ([Exodus 20](/exodus/20 "Exodus 20 - The Ten Commandments")) and the detailed stipulations of the Mosaic Law, which fill the books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, were revealed to Moses. The mention of Mount Sinai in [Leviticus 26:46](/leviticus/26-46 "Leviticus 26:46 - Conclusion of the Law") serves to underscore the solemnity, majesty, and divine authority of the entire body of law. It marks the birthplace of Israel as a covenant nation, distinct from all others, living under the direct governance of Yahweh.

**What is the difference between "statutes," "judgments," and "laws" as used here?**

Answer: While often used in overlapping ways, these three terms collectively emphasize the comprehensive nature of God's revealed will. "Statutes" (Hebrew: _ḥuqqîm_) typically refer to divine decrees or fixed ordinances that are to be obeyed because God commanded them, often without an immediately apparent human rationale (e.g., ritual purity laws, dietary restrictions). "Judgments" (Hebrew: _mišpāṭîm_) pertain to judicial decisions or civil laws that govern human relationships and societal order, often rooted in principles of fairness and equity (e.g., laws concerning property, injury, justice in the courts). "Laws" (Hebrew: _tôrōt_, plural of _Torah_) is a broader term meaning "instructions" or "teachings," encompassing the entire body of God's revelation, including both specific commands and general ethical principles. Together, they signify that God's instruction covers every aspect of life—religious, civil, and moral—providing a complete framework for His people.

**How does this verse, summarizing the Mosaic Law, relate to the New Testament and Christian faith?**

Answer: [Leviticus 26:46](/leviticus/26-46 "Leviticus 26:46 - Conclusion of the Law") highlights the divine origin and comprehensive nature of the Mosaic Law, which, for Christians, serves as a foundational revelation of God's character and His righteous standards. While believers in the New Covenant are not under the Mosaic Law as a means of salvation or justification ([Galatians 3:24-25](/galatians/3-24 "Galatians 3:24-25 - The Law as a Guardian")), it remains profoundly relevant. The Law reveals the holiness of God and the sinfulness of humanity ([Romans 3:20](/romans/3-20 "Romans 3:20 - The Law Reveals Sin")), pointing to the need for a savior. It also contains timeless moral principles that reflect God's unchanging nature and His desire for justice, love, and righteousness, which are upheld and fulfilled in Christ ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). Thus, this verse reminds us that God is a God of order and truth who reveals His will, a truth that culminates in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 26:46, in its summary of the Mosaic Law, profoundly points to Christ as its ultimate fulfillment and the mediator of a superior covenant. The "statutes and judgments and laws" given at Mount Sinai, while divinely authored and perfect in their intent, exposed humanity's inability to perfectly keep God's righteous standards, thereby revealing the pervasive nature of sin ([Romans 3:20](/romans/3-20 "Romans 3:20 - The Law Reveals Sin")). This comprehensive legal framework served as a "guardian" or "schoolmaster" ([Galatians 3:24](/galatians/3-24 "Galatians 3:24 - The Law as a Schoolmaster")) to lead Israel to Christ, demonstrating their need for a righteousness that could not be achieved through law-keeping. Jesus Christ, unlike Moses, is not merely the hand through whom God's law is delivered, but the very embodiment of the Law's righteousness ([Romans 8:3-4](/romans/8-3 "Romans 8:3-4 - Christ Fulfills the Law")). He perfectly fulfilled every requirement of the Law—its moral demands, its sacrificial system (as the ultimate Lamb of God, [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), and its prophetic shadows. Through His atoning death and resurrection, Christ inaugurated the New Covenant, a covenant "better" than the old ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - A Better Covenant")), written not on stone tablets but on the hearts of believers by the Holy Spirit ([Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant")). He is the ultimate Mediator ([1_timothy/2-5](/1-timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator, Christ Jesus")), establishing a relationship with God based on grace and faith, rather than adherence to a legal code. Thus, Leviticus 26:46, in its conclusion of the old covenant, implicitly anticipates the coming of the One who would perfectly satisfy its demands and bring about a new, living way to God.

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 27:34

These [are] the commandments, which the LORD commanded Moses for the children of Israel in mount Sinai.

Deuteronomy 6:1

¶ Now these [are] the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do [them] in the land whither ye go to possess it:

Deuteronomy 12:1

¶ These [are] the statutes and judgments, which ye shall observe to do in the land, which the LORD God of thy fathers giveth thee to possess it, all the days that ye live upon the earth.

Leviticus 25:1

¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses in mount Sinai, saying,

Deuteronomy 13:4

Ye shall walk after the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him.

Leviticus 8:36

So Aaron and his sons did all things which the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses.

Psalms 77:20

Thou leddest thy people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.