Leveticus Chapter 9

This chapter describes the beginning of Aaron and his sons’ priestly ministry after their ordination in the previous chapter.

1. Offerings for Aaron and the People (v.1-21)
– On the eighth day after their ordination, Moses instructed Aaron to make sin offerings and burnt offerings for himself and the people.
– Aaron presented these offerings, including a calf, a ram, and various grain and sin offerings.

2. The Glory of the Lord Appears (v.22-24)
– After Aaron had finished making the offerings, he blessed the people.
– Suddenly, fire came out from the presence of the Lord and consumed the burnt offering on the altar.
– When the people saw this, they shouted for joy and fell facedown.

3. Nadab and Abihu’s Unauthorized Fire (v.1-10)
– Aaron’s two sons, Nadab and Abihu, offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, which he had not commanded.
– Fire came out from the presence of the Lord and consumed Nadab and Abihu, and they died before the Lord.
– Moses explained that this was to show the people the Lord’s holiness and the proper reverence required in worship.

This chapter marks a significant moment, as Aaron and his sons begin their priestly duties and the glory of the Lord is dramatically manifested. However, the tragic incident with Nadab and Abihu serves as a sobering reminder of the need for proper reverence and obedience in approaching the holy God.

The chapter underscores the gravity of the priestly office and the importance of adhering strictly to God’s instructions regarding worship and sacrifice.