Leviticus 19:26 - “‘You shall not eat any meat with the blood still in it. You shall not use enchantments, nor practice sorcery.

Generated Verse: Leviticus 19:26

What does "Leviticus 19:26" mean?


Leviticus 19:26 lays down two separate prohibitions:

"You shall not eat any meat with the blood still in it." This refers to the practice of eating meat that has not been properly drained of its blood. The rationale behind this prohibition, found elsewhere in Leviticus (e.g., Leviticus 17:10-14), is that the blood is considered the seat of life. Therefore, consuming it would be disrespectful to the life given by God. The proper slaughter of animals in Jewish law includes draining the blood.

"You shall not use enchantments, nor practice sorcery." This part condemns various forms of magic and divination. Enchantments and sorcery were often associated with pagan religious practices and were seen as attempts to manipulate supernatural forces outside of God's will. This prohibition aims to keep people focused on God as the source of power and guidance.
Enchantments might refer to using spells, incantations, or charms to influence events or people.
Sorcery is a broader term encompassing various forms of divination, magic, and the use of supernatural powers for personal gain or to harm others.

In summary, the verse prohibits eating blood (as a sign of respect for life) and condemns practices of magic and divination, which were seen as undermining the exclusive relationship with God.

What categories does "Leviticus 19:26" have?