Bible Strands
Leviticus 16:1
Now the LORD spoke to Moses after the death of two of Aaron’s sons when they approached the presence of the LORD.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The text states that the LORD speaks to Moses immediately after two of Aaron’s sons die when they approach the LORD’s presence. This communication precedes the direct warning about Aaron entering the Most Holy Place in Leviticus 16:2.
The words — The verb וַ/יְדַבֵּ֤ר (va/y.da.Ber) literally means "and he spoke," marking divine initiation. The phrase אַחֲרֵי מ֔וֹת (after death) anchors the timing to the immediate aftermath of the sons’ judgment.
The thread — This event directly follows the account of Nadab and Abihu’s death in Leviticus 10:1 and introduces the regulations for approaching God’s presence in Leviticus 16. The same boundary theme recurs in the broader sacrificial code of Leviticus 17–27.
Why it lands — The text requires the reader to note that divine instruction follows divine judgment. It demands strict adherence to God’s prescribed boundaries rather than presumptuous access to His presence.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
And the Lord spake unto Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron, when they offered before the Lord, and died;
Cross-references
- Leviticus 10:1 Now Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them and added incense, and offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to His command.