![]() ![]() Keep in mind, too, that Leviticus is a continuation of the story of the Exodus of God’s family. As you read Leviticus, don’t get hung up on all the ritual prescriptions and don’t ignore the book because, as Catholics, we don’t follow these elaborate codes. After the golden calf affair, Leviticus becomes necessary. Prior to the golden calf, Leviticus would not have been needed. It is the handbook for the Levitical priests. Keep that in mind as you read the chapters of Leviticus. It takes the rest of Exodus (chapters 33-40), all of the Book of Leviticus and the first ten chapters of Numbers, to explain. This second legislation deals with Israel’s fallen condition after the golden calf affair. The Ten Commandments had been a moral law, but this second law is judicial and ceremonial, involving the punishment of criminals and the rules for animal sacrifice. Israel’s sin was so grave that it required what amounted to a second legislation. Leviticus is part of the renewal of the covenant made necessary by the golden calf rebellion. That is what brings us to the end of Exodus and into Leviticus. The Levites must stand between God and His people. The whole character of God’s relationship with His chosen people has been changed.
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