Leviticus Chapter 20 Summary - Key Points & Themes

Read Leviticus Chapter 20 Summary

Penalties are specified for violations enumerated in chapters 18-19: death for Molech worship, mediums, adultery, homosexuality, and various incestuous unions. Lesser penalties of being cut off or childlessness apply to other forbidden relations, and the principle of distinction between clean and unclean is reiterated. Israel's separation from the nations is theologically grounded in God's election of them as His own holy people, set apart by these laws.

Characters in This Chapter

Moses

Mediator and lawgiver who received and transmitted God's instructions to Israel

Aaron

First high priest of Israel, consecrated to lead the sacrificial worship

Nadab

Son of Aaron who died for offering unauthorized fire before the Lord

Abihu

Son of Aaron who died alongside Nadab for disobedience in worship

Places in This Chapter

Mount Sinai

The mountain where God gave all the laws contained in Leviticus, establishing the covenant relationship with Israel

The Tabernacle

The portable sanctuary where God dwelt among his people and where sacrifices were offered

Holy of Holies

The innermost chamber of the tabernacle where the Ark resided and only the high priest could enter once a year

Position in Book

Laws of SacrificeChapters 1-7

Ordination of PriestsChapters 8-10

Laws of PurityChapters 11-15

The Day of AtonementChapters 16

The Holiness CodeChapters 17-26

Laws governing sexual conduct, social justice, religious festivals, and the blessings and curses of the covenant.

Vows and DedicationsChapters 27