Leviticus 22:9
They shall therefore keep mine ordinance, lest they bear sin for it, and die therefore, if they profane it: I the LORD do sanctify them.
Leviticus 22:9 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, God is instructing the priests to adhere to His laws and ordinances so that they do not bear the burden of sin and face death for their transgressions. The emphasis here is on the importance of upholding the sanctity of God's commandments and regulations. By following these guidelines, the priests are ensuring that they remain holy and set apart for serving the Lord. Failure to do so would result in defilement and ultimately death, highlighting the seriousness of disobeying God's instructions. The act of sanctification by the Lord signifies the priests' consecration for their sacred duties and underscores the need for obedience and reverence towards God's laws. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of honoring God's ordinances and the consequences of profaning them.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse from Leviticus 22:9 focuses on the concept of sanctification. The act of keeping God's ordinances is seen as a way of consecrating oneself to the Lord and living a life set apart for His purposes. By following the regulations laid down by God, the people are demonstrating their commitment to holiness and their desire to be in relationship with Him. The consequences of not keeping these ordinances are severe, as it is believed to result in bearing sin and facing death. This underscores the importance of obedience and reverence towards God's commands. The phrase "I the LORD do sanctify them" further emphasizes that sanctification comes from God Himself, highlighting His role in setting apart His people for His glory. Through this verse, believers are encouraged to live in accordance with God's will and experience the sanctifying work of the Lord in their lives.
Leviticus 22:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
They shall therefore keep my charge, lest they bear sin for it, and die therein, if they profane it: I am Jehovah who sanctifieth them.
World English Bible
“‘They shall therefore follow my requirements, lest they bear sin for it, and die therein, if they profane it. I am Yahweh who sanctifies them.
Douay-Rheims
Let them keep my precepts, that they may not fall into sin, and die in the sanctuary, when they shall have defiled it. I am the Lord who sanctify them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Let them keepe therefore mine ordinance, least they beare their sinne for it, and die for it, if they defile it: I the Lord sanctifie them.