TRV
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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Leviticus 9:1–7.
Orders are here given for another solemnity upon the eighth day; for the newly-ordained priests were set to work immediately after the days of their consecration were finished, to let them know that they were not ordained to be idle: He that desires the office of a bishop desires a good work, which must be looked at with desire, more than the honour and benefit. The priests had not so much as one day's respite from service allowed them, that they might divert themselves, and receive the compliments of their friends upon their elevation, but were busily employed the very next day; for their consecration was the filling of their hands. God's spiritual priests have constant work cut out for them, which the duty of every day requires; and those that would give up their account with joy must redeem time; see Eze 43:26, Eze 43:27. Now, 1. Moses raises their expectation of a glorious appearance of God to them this day (Lev 9:4): "To day the Lord will appear to you that are the priests." And when all the congregation are gathered together, and stand before the Lord, he tells them (Lev 9:6), The glory of the Lord shall appear to you. Though they had reason enough to believe God's acceptance of all that they had done according to his appointment, upon the general assurance we have that he is the rewarder of those that diligently seek him (even if he had not given them any sensible token of it), yet that if possible they and theirs might be effectually obliged to the service and worship of God, and might never turn aside to idols, the glory of God appeared to them, and visibly owned what they had done. We are not now to expect such appearances; we Christians walk more by faith, and less by sight, than they did. But we may be sure that God draws nigh to those who draw nigh to him, and that the offerings of faith are really acceptable to him, though, the sacrifices being spiritual, the tokens of the acceptance are, as it is fit they should be, spiritual likewise. To those who are duly consecrated to God he will undoubtedly manifest himself. 2. He puts both priests and people upon preparing to receive this favour which God designed them. Aaron and his sons, and the elders of Israel, are all summoned to attend, Lev 9:1. Note, God will manifest himself in the solemn assemblies of his people and ministers; and those that would have the benefit and comfort of God's appearances must in them give their attendance. (1.) Aaron is ordered to prepare his offerings: A young calf for a sin-offering, Lev 9:2. The Jewish writers suggest that a calf was appointed for a sin-offering to remind him of his sin in making the golden calf, by which he had rendered himself for ever unworthy of the honour of the priesthood, and which he had reason to reflect upon with sorrow and shame in all the atonements he made. (2.) Aaron must direct the people to get theirs ready. Hitherto Moses had told the people what they must do; but now Aaron, as high priest over the house of God, must be their teacher, in things pertaining to God: Unto the children of Israel thou shalt speak, Lev 9:3. Now that he was to speak from them to God in the sacrifices (the language of which he that appointed them very well understood) he must speak from God to them in the laws about the sacrifices. Thus Moses would engage the people's respect and obedience to him, as one that was set over them in the Lord, to admonish them. (3.) Aaron must offer his own first, and then the people's, Lev 9:7. Aaron must now go to the altar, Moses having shown him the way to it; and there, [1.] He must make an atonement for himself; for the high priest, being compassed with infirmity, ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins (Heb 5:2, Heb 5:3), and for himself first; for how can we expect to be accepted in our prayers for others, if we ourselves be not reconciled to God? Nor is any service pleasing to God till the guilt of sin be removed by our interest in the great propitiation. Those that have the care of the souls of others are also hereby taught to look to their own in the first place; this charity must begin at home, though it must not end there. It is the charge to Timothy, to take care to save himself first, and then those that heard him, Ti1 4:16. The high priest made atonement for himself, as one that was joined with sinners; but we have a high priest that was separated from sinners, and needed no atonement. When Messiah the prince was cut off as a sacrifice, it was not for himself; for he knew no sin. [2.] He must make an atonement for the people, by offering their sacrifices. Now that he was made a high priest he must lay to heart the concerns of the people, and this as their great concern, their reconciliation to God, and the putting away of sin which had separated between them and God. He must make atonement as the Lord commanded. See here the wonderful condescension of the mercy of God, that he not only allows an atonement to be made, but commands it; not only admits, but requires us to be reconciled to him. No room therefore is left to doubt but that the atonement which is commanded will be accepted.
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Summary
Leviticus 9:6 marks a pivotal moment in the inauguration of Israel's priestly system, where Moses articulates a divine mandate and a profound promise. He declares that the specific acts of worship and sacrifice they are about to perform are not human innovations but direct, authoritative commands from the Lord. This precise obedience, a demonstration of their faithfulness and adherence to God's revealed will, is explicitly linked to the tangible, visible manifestation of God's majestic glory, serving as divine confirmation of His acceptance of their worship and His abiding presence among His people.
Context
Literary Context
Leviticus 9:6 is situated on the "eighth day" following the elaborate seven-day consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, meticulously detailed in Leviticus chapter 8. The preceding chapter describes the intricate rituals of their ordination, including anointing, purification, and sin offerings, all designed to set them apart for holy service. This "eighth day" signifies not merely the conclusion of the consecration period but the true inauguration of their active priestly ministry and the commencement of public sacrifices for the entire congregation of Israel. Moses' declaration in verse 6 serves as a crucial instruction and divine assurance to the assembled people, setting the stage for the climactic, awe-inspiring display of God's approval in Leviticus 9:23-24, where fire consumes the offerings, confirming divine acceptance.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Israelites are gathered at the Tabernacle, the newly constructed portable sanctuary, which was built according to God's precise instructions given in Exodus 25-31. This period marks a foundational stage in Israel's identity as a covenant people, transitioning from their liberation from Egypt to establishing a structured system of worship and governance under God's direct rule. The entire nation is present, eagerly anticipating the confirmation of God's acceptance of their worship and the newly established priestly order. The concept of God's "glory" appearing was not entirely new; it had been seen at Mount Sinai and had led them through the wilderness in a cloud by day and fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22). The promise of its appearance now, in the context of the Tabernacle and the priests' inaugural service, underscored God's commitment to dwelling among His people and validating their prescribed means of approach to Him.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes prevalent throughout Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. It highlights the theme of Divine Sovereignty and Revelation, emphasizing that true worship is not a human construct but divinely initiated and prescribed. The phrase "the thing which the LORD commanded" underscores God's absolute authority over how He is to be approached and worshipped. Closely related is the theme of Obedience as the Prerequisite for Blessing and Presence. The promise that "the glory of the LORD shall appear" is directly contingent upon the people's faithful execution of God's commands, demonstrating that divine manifestation and acceptance flow from human obedience. Finally, the verse reinforces the theme of God's Desire for Dwelling and Manifestation, revealing His intention to be tangibly present among His people and to validate their worship through a visible display of His majestic presence.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word is highly significant, often translated as "word," "matter," or "command." Here, it emphasizes that what Moses is about to instruct them to do is not a human invention or a mere suggestion, but a direct, authoritative decree from the Lord. It underscores the divine origin and non-negotiable nature of the worship rituals, highlighting that the entire system is founded upon God's explicit verbal instruction.
This verb signifies a strong, authoritative directive, an imperative from a superior to a subordinate. It highlights God's sovereignty and Israel's absolute obligation to precise obedience in matters of worship. The use of this word reinforces that the efficacy and acceptance of their actions are directly tied to their faithful adherence to God's specific instructions, not to their own ingenuity, religious zeal, or cultural practices.
Derived from a root meaning "heavy" or "weighty," kâbôwd in a theological context refers to the visible, tangible manifestation of God's majestic presence, power, and holiness. It denotes the "weight" or "substance" of His divine being. When the "glory of the LORD" appears, it is not merely a symbolic representation but a real, often overwhelming, display of God's inherent majesty, frequently associated with light, fire, or a cloud, signifying His tangible presence and approval.
Verse Breakdown
"And Moses said,"
This opening clause establishes Moses as the authoritative mediator of God's word to the people. As the covenant mediator, his pronouncements carry divine weight and are understood as direct communication from the Lord to the assembled congregation, underscoring the divine origin of the instructions that follow.
"This [is] the thing which the LORD commanded that ye should do:"
Moses explicitly states that the upcoming actions—the sacrifices and priestly service—are not arbitrary rituals but divinely ordained commands. The phrase "the thing which the LORD commanded" stresses the absolute necessity of precise obedience to God's revealed will as the prerequisite for acceptable worship and divine favor. It sets the stage for the specific instructions that follow regarding the offerings, emphasizing that their efficacy relies entirely on adherence to God's blueprint.
"and the glory of the LORD shall appear unto you."
This is the profound promise contingent upon their obedience. The appearance of God's glory signifies His acceptance, validation, and tangible presence among His people. It is the ultimate divine confirmation that their worship is pleasing and that the newly consecrated Tabernacle and priesthood are legitimate in His sight. This visible manifestation would serve to solidify their faith and assure them of God's dwelling in their midst, affirming His covenant faithfulness.
Literary Devices
Leviticus 9:6 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound message. Divine Speech is evident as Moses speaks directly, relaying a message from the Lord, emphasizing the authoritative and non-negotiable nature of the commands. This is reinforced by the phrase "the thing which the LORD commanded," highlighting the Covenantal Language that underpins the relationship between God and Israel, where obedience is met with divine blessing and presence. The verse also masterfully builds Anticipation and Suspense, as the promise of God's glory appearing creates a profound sense of expectation for a climactic theophany. This anticipated Theophany—the visible manifestation of God's presence—serves as the ultimate validation of the priestly system and the people's worship, transforming abstract commands into a tangible, awe-inspiring experience of the divine.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Leviticus 9:6 powerfully encapsulates the core theological principle that access to God's presence and the experience of His glory are predicated on obedient adherence to His revealed will. The "thing which the LORD commanded" underscores that true worship is not self-initiated or culturally devised but divinely prescribed, emphasizing God's absolute sovereignty over how He is to be approached. The promise of "the glory of the LORD shall appear" signifies God's profound desire to dwell among His people and to validate their worship, demonstrating His faithfulness to His covenant promises. This verse establishes a fundamental pattern that echoes throughout salvation history: divine initiative and command, human obedience, and subsequent divine manifestation and blessing. It reveals a God who desires to be known and encountered, but only on His terms.
Reflection and Application
Leviticus 9:6 provides a profound and enduring lesson for believers today: God's manifest presence and transformative power are intimately connected to our obedience to His Word. While the sacrificial system of the Old Covenant has been fulfilled in Christ, the underlying principle remains that our worship and daily walk must be in alignment with God's commands, not our own preferences, cultural trends, or fleeting emotions. Our "sacrifices" are now spiritual—lives of faith, dedication, and service offered to God through Christ. When we prioritize hearing and obeying God's voice, we create the spiritual conditions for Him to manifest His glory in our individual lives, in our families, in our communities, and through the corporate body of the church. This manifestation may not be a visible cloud or fire, but it is no less real: His transformative power, His peace that surpasses understanding, His wisdom guiding our steps, and His empowering presence enabling us for ministry and witness. We are called to live lives that honor Him, trusting that as we do, His glory will be revealed in and through us, drawing others to His saving grace and truth.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of the "eighth day" in Leviticus 9:6?
The "eighth day" is highly significant because it marks the culmination of the seven-day consecration period for Aaron and his sons, as detailed in Leviticus chapter 8. In biblical numerology, seven often represents completion or perfection, while eight frequently symbolizes new beginnings, resurrection, or superabundance. Thus, the eighth day signifies the true inauguration of the priests' active ministry, moving beyond preparation into the practical, public service of offering sacrifices on behalf of the people. It is the day when the Tabernacle becomes fully operational as the dwelling place of God and the center of Israelite worship, setting the stage for God's glory to appear and validate the entire system, ushering in a new era of divine-human communion.
Why was it so crucial for the glory of the LORD to appear at this specific moment?
The appearance of the glory of the LORD at this moment was absolutely crucial for several profound reasons. Firstly, it served as undeniable divine validation of the newly established priestly system and the Tabernacle itself. After extensive instructions and meticulous construction, God's visible presence confirmed His acceptance of their obedience and His willingness to dwell among His people. Secondly, it affirmed Aaron and his sons as legitimate priests, chosen and consecrated by God, dispelling any doubt among the people regarding their authority. Thirdly, it provided a powerful, tangible assurance to the entire congregation that their sacrifices were acceptable and that God was indeed present to meet with them, fulfilling the very purpose of the sanctuary, as commanded in Exodus 25:8. This visible manifestation of glory cemented the covenant relationship, instilled awe and reverence for God's holiness, and provided a visible sign of divine approval for the new era of worship.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Leviticus 9:6, with its emphasis on obedience leading to the manifestation of God's glory, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Covenant system, with its Tabernacle, priests, and sacrifices, was a shadow pointing to the greater reality found in Christ (Hebrews 10:1). While the glory of the Lord appeared in a cloud of fire in the Old Testament, in the New Covenant, God's glory is uniquely and perfectly revealed in the person of Jesus Christ, who is the "radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being" (Hebrews 1:3). He is the true and perfect High Priest, consecrated not by human hands or animal blood, but by His own eternal Spirit and His perfect, once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 9:11-14). Through His perfect obedience, even to death on a cross (Philippians 2:8), Jesus opened a new and living way for humanity to approach God, not through a physical tabernacle, but directly into the heavenly sanctuary (Hebrews 10:19-20). The promise that "the glory of the LORD shall appear unto you" is fulfilled in Christ, who not only perfectly revealed God's glory to us but also enables us, by His indwelling Spirit, to be transformed into His likeness, reflecting that very glory (2 Corinthians 3:18). He is the ultimate "thing which the LORD commanded" for our salvation and the full, indwelling manifestation of God's presence among His people.