Leviticus 6:18

KJV

All the males among the children of Aaron shall eat of it. [It shall be] a statute for ever in your generations concerning the offerings of the LORD made by fire: every one that toucheth them shall be holy.

KJV (with Strong's)

All the males {H2145} among the children {H1121} of Aaron {H175} shall eat {H398} of it. It shall be a statute {H2706} for ever {H5769} in your generations {H1755} concerning the offerings {H801} of the LORD {H3068} made by fire {H801}: every one that toucheth {H5060} them shall be holy {H6942}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Every male descendant of Aharon may eat from it; it is his share of the offerings for ADONAI made by fire forever through all your generations. Whatever touches those offerings will become holy.'"

Berean Standard Bible

Any male among the sons of Aaron may eat it. This is a permanent portion from the offerings made by fire to the LORD for the generations to come. Anything that touches them will become holy.”

American Standard Version

Every male among the children of Aaron shall eat of it, as his portion for ever throughout your generations, from the offerings of Jehovah made by fire: whosoever toucheth them shall be holy.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 6:18 establishes precise regulations concerning the consumption and handling of "most holy" offerings, specifically those portions designated for the priesthood from offerings like the sin and trespass offerings. It mandates that only the male descendants of Aaron are permitted to partake of these consecrated portions, thereby instituting this as a perpetual ordinance for all subsequent generations. Furthermore, the verse declares that anything or anyone coming into contact with these sacred offerings becomes holy, emphatically underscoring the profound sanctity and the contagious nature of holiness associated with items dedicated to the Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 6:18 serves as a culminating statement within a broader section (Leviticus 6:14-18) that meticulously details the priestly portions of various offerings. While the preceding verses focus on the burnt offering and meal offering, this particular instruction specifically addresses the "most holy" offerings, such as the [sin offering](/leviticus/6-24-30 "Leviticus 6:24-30 - Regulations for the Sin Offering") and the [trespass offering](/leviticus/7-1-10 "Leviticus 7:1-10 - Regulations for the Trespass Offering"). The meat from these offerings was exclusively consumed by the male priests within the sacred confines of the Tabernacle. This verse functions as a foundational principle governing the handling of such highly consecrated items, underscoring the stringent protocols necessitated by their divine sanctity. The meticulous nature of the instructions throughout [Leviticus 6](/leviticus/6 "Leviticus 6 - Laws for Priests Regarding Offerings") underscores the divine precision demanded in all aspects of worship and the critical distinction maintained between the holy and the common.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the Tabernacle served as the central place of worship, and the sacrificial system was the primary means of approaching God. The priesthood, exclusively from the lineage of Aaron, was divinely appointed to mediate between God and the people. Their role involved not only performing the sacrifices but also consuming specific portions as a means of sustenance and a symbolic act of bearing the iniquity of the people, as mentioned in [Leviticus 10:17](/leviticus/10-17 "Leviticus 10:17 - Priestly Consumption of Sin Offering"). The concept of "holiness" was paramount, denoting separation and dedication to God. Items or individuals designated as "most holy" were imbued with a powerful sanctity that could be transferred through contact. This required strict adherence to purity laws to prevent defilement of the sacred or unintended consequences for the toucher. The consecration of Aaron and his sons, detailed in [Exodus 29](/exodus/29 "Exodus 29 - Consecration of Aaron and His Sons"), established the foundational ordinances for their priestly service, including the handling of holy things.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Primarily, it reinforces the theme of **Holiness of God** and the corresponding demand for holiness in His people and their worship. The strict regulations concerning sacred objects emphasize God's absolute purity and His separation from all that is common or defiled. Secondly, it highlights the **Role and Responsibility of the Priesthood**. The Aaronic priests were uniquely set apart to mediate between God and Israel, and their consumption of the offerings underscored their unique relationship with God and their dependence on Him for sustenance. This act was both a privilege and a burden, as they symbolically bore the iniquity of the people (cf. [Leviticus 10:17](/leviticus/10-17 "Leviticus 10:17 - Priestly Consumption of Sin Offering")). Finally, the concept of **Contagious Holiness** is central, demonstrating that contact with the divine (or items dedicated to Him) has transformative power, requiring careful handling and a state of purity. This theme is intricately linked to the broader system of purity laws found throughout [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "The Book of Leviticus"), which aimed to teach Israel about the nature of God and the necessity of maintaining ritual and moral purity in His presence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Male (Hebrew, _zâkâr'_):** This term (H2145) refers to the male gender, whether of humans or animals, emphasizing their specific role and designation within the Israelite societal and cultic structure. In the context of Leviticus 6:18, it specifically designates the male descendants of Aaron as the sole authorized individuals to consume the "most holy" portions of the offerings, underscoring the gender-specific and hereditary nature of the Aaronic priesthood and their exclusive access to these sacred provisions.
* **Statute (Hebrew, _chôq'_):** This word (H2706) denotes an enactment, a fixed regulation, or an "established decree." It signifies a divine ordinance that is binding and unchangeable. In this verse, its use emphasizes the authoritative and non-negotiable nature of the command regarding the consumption and handling of the offerings, indicating that this instruction is not merely a suggestion but a divinely ordained law.
* **Holy (Hebrew, _qâdash'_):** This foundational term (H6942) signifies being set apart, consecrated, or dedicated for sacred use, often implying purity and separation from the common or profane. In the context of Leviticus 6:18, the offerings themselves are "most holy," meaning they are supremely consecrated to God. The phrase "every one that toucheth them shall be holy" has been interpreted in two primary ways: (1) the act of touching a "most holy" object causes the toucher to become consecrated or set apart, thereby requiring them to observe certain ritual behaviors or a state of purity; or (2) the toucher must *already* be in a state of ritual purity or holiness to touch the sacred object without defiling it or incurring guilt. The latter interpretation is often favored, emphasizing that contact with the divine demands a corresponding state of purity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"All the males among the children of Aaron shall eat of it":** This clause specifies the exclusive recipients of the consecrated portions of the sin and trespass offerings. It highlights the divine provision for the priests, who were set apart for service and thus did not have a tribal land inheritance like the other tribes. Their sustenance came directly from the offerings of the Lord, underscoring their dependence on and intimate connection to the sacrificial system. This was both a privilege and a responsibility, as consuming these offerings was part of their priestly duty.
* **"[It shall be] a statute for ever in your generations concerning the offerings of the LORD made by fire":** This declares the enduring and immutable nature of the preceding command. The consumption of these offerings by the priests was not a temporary regulation but a permanent fixture in the worship life of Israel, passed down through successive generations of the Aaronic priesthood. The phrase "offerings of the LORD made by fire" specifies the scope of this statute, referring to sacrifices where a portion was consumed by fire on the altar, such as the sin, trespass, and peace offerings.
* **"every one that toucheth them shall be holy":** This potent statement conveys the contagious nature of holiness associated with these "most holy" offerings. It implies that contact with these sacred items either confers a state of holiness upon the toucher, requiring them to observe certain ritual behaviors, or, more commonly interpreted, demands that the toucher must already be in a state of ritual purity to avoid defiling the sacred object or incurring guilt. This emphasizes the profound sanctity of the offerings and the meticulous care required in their handling, reinforcing the absolute purity of God and the reverence due to His consecrated things.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 6:18 employs several literary devices to convey its message with clarity and authority. The most prominent is **Legal Language** and a **Prescriptive Tone**, characteristic of the entire book of Leviticus. The verse issues a direct command ("shall eat") and a declarative statement ("shall be holy"), leaving no ambiguity regarding the divine will. There is also **Emphasis** on the concept of "holiness," which is central to the verse's meaning and the broader theological framework of Leviticus. The phrase "statute for ever" provides **Repetition** of a common legal formula found throughout the Pentateuch, underscoring the enduring and immutable nature of God's laws. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Synecdoche** by referring to "the males among the children of Aaron" to represent the entire Aaronic priesthood, highlighting their collective and hereditary responsibility. The transfer of holiness through touch can also be seen as a form of **Symbolism**, where physical contact with the sacred represents a spiritual or ritual connection to the divine.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 6:18 profoundly illustrates the holiness of God and the meticulous care required in approaching Him. It underscores the principle of **consecration**, where objects and individuals are set apart for divine service, thereby acquiring a sacred status. The verse reveals God's provision for His ministers, ensuring their sustenance through their priestly duties, while simultaneously emphasizing the immense responsibility that accompanies such privilege. The concept of contagious holiness, where contact with sacred items impacts the toucher, highlights the pervasive nature of God's purity and the necessity of reverence in His presence. This strict demarcation between the holy and the common served to teach Israel about God's transcendent nature and the profound respect due to His commands and presence.
* [Numbers 18:9-10](/numbers/18-9-10 "Numbers 18:9-10 - Priests' Portions from Offerings")
* [Exodus 29:33](/exodus/29-33 "Exodus 29:33 - Priests Eating Consecrated Offerings")
* [Hebrews 9:13-14](/hebrews/9-13-14 "Hebrews 9:13-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice and Cleansing")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific ritual practices of the Old Testament sacrificial system are no longer observed by Christians, the underlying principles of holiness, reverence, and consecrated service remain profoundly relevant. Leviticus 6:18 calls us to a deep appreciation for the sanctity of God and all things pertaining to Him. If physical offerings under the Old Covenant demanded such meticulous care and reverence, how much more should we approach the spiritual realities of our faith—God's Word, prayer, worship, and the sacraments—with awe and respect? As New Covenant believers, we are called a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - Believers as a Royal Priesthood")), implying a responsibility to live lives consecrated to God, reflecting His holiness in our daily conduct. This verse reminds us that our interaction with the divine transforms us, calling us to a life of purity and devotion that aligns with the character of the Holy God whom we serve.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of "contagious holiness" in Leviticus 6:18 inform our understanding of God's nature and our relationship with Him?**
* **In what ways can believers today demonstrate reverence for God and "holy things" in their daily lives, even without the physical rituals of the Old Covenant?**
* **As part of a "royal priesthood," what does it mean for us to be "holy" in our thoughts, words, and actions, reflecting the character of God?**

### FAQ
**What does "every one that toucheth them shall be holy" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: This phrase has been interpreted in two primary ways. First, it could mean that the act of touching something "most holy" (like these offerings) causes the toucher to become consecrated or set apart, thereby requiring them to observe certain ritual behaviors or maintain a state of purity for a period. Second, and more commonly understood, it means that the person touching the sacred object must *already* be in a state of ritual purity or holiness to prevent defilement of the sacred object or themselves. If an impure person touched a "most holy" item, they would not become holy, but rather they would defile the holy item and incur guilt. This highlights the extreme sanctity of the offerings and the strict requirements for those who interacted with them, emphasizing the need for ritual purity in the presence of God's holiness, as seen in other purity laws throughout [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "The Book of Leviticus").

**Why were only "males among the children of Aaron" permitted to eat these offerings?**

Answer: This restriction underscores the exclusive and hereditary nature of the Aaronic priesthood. God specifically designated Aaron and his male descendants to serve as priests, mediating between God and the Israelites. Their unique role included performing sacrifices and consuming specific portions of offerings as a means of sustenance and as a symbolic act of bearing the iniquity of the people, as mentioned in [Numbers 18:9-10](/numbers/18-9-10 "Numbers 18:9-10 - Priests' Portions"). This privilege was tied to their consecrated status and their unique access to the holy things of the Tabernacle, distinguishing them from the rest of the community and maintaining the divine order of worship.

**Are these specific laws concerning offerings and priestly consumption still relevant for Christians today?**

Answer: While the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament, including specific sacrificial rituals and priestly dietary regulations, are not directly binding on New Covenant believers, the theological principles they convey remain profoundly relevant. For Christians, these laws point to the absolute holiness of God, the necessity of atonement for sin, and the call to a consecrated life. The specific rituals are fulfilled in Christ, but the underlying truths about reverence, purity, and God's provision for His people endure. We are called to be a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - Believers as a Royal Priesthood")), meaning we are all set apart for God's service and called to live holy lives, reflecting the character of the One who made us holy through His sacrifice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 6:18, with its emphasis on "most holy" offerings, the consecrated priesthood, and the contagious nature of holiness, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "offerings of the LORD made by fire" foreshadow the singular, perfect sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, who offered Himself "through the eternal Spirit without blemish to God" ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). He is not only the perfect sacrifice but also the ultimate High Priest, belonging to a superior order (that of Melchizedek, as described in [Hebrews 7](/hebrews/7 "Hebrews 7 - Christ's Superior Priesthood")), who has entered "once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption" ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Eternal Redemption")). The requirement for the males of Aaron's lineage to eat of the offerings for their sustenance and as a sign of their participation in the covenant finds its antitype in believers spiritually partaking of Christ, the Bread of Life ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), through faith, thereby receiving spiritual nourishment and eternal life. Furthermore, the declaration that "every one that toucheth them shall be holy" is powerfully fulfilled in Christ. We do not become holy by touching a physical offering, but by being united with Christ through faith, we are declared righteous and made holy by His perfect sacrifice. He is our holiness ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, and Redemption")), and by His Spirit, we are progressively sanctified, transformed into His likeness ([2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into Christ's Image")). Thus, the ancient statute points directly to the profound and transforming holiness found only in Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of 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

Numbers 18:10

In the most holy [place] shalt thou eat it; every male shall eat it: it shall be holy unto thee.

Leviticus 6:29

All the males among the priests shall eat thereof: it [is] most holy.

Leviticus 22:3

Say unto them, Whosoever [he be] of all your seed among your generations, that goeth unto the holy things, which the children of Israel hallow unto the LORD, having his uncleanness upon him, that soul shall be cut off from my presence: I [am] the LORD.

Leviticus 22:7

And when the sun is down, he shall be clean, and shall afterward eat of the holy things; because it [is] his food.

1 Peter 1:16

Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Haggai 2:12

If one bear holy flesh in the skirt of his garment, and with his skirt do touch bread, or pottage, or wine, or oil, or any meat, shall it be holy? And the priests answered and said, No.

Haggai 2:14

Then answered Haggai, and said, So [is] this people, and so [is] this nation before me, saith the LORD; and so [is] every work of their hands; and that which they offer there [is] unclean.