Leviticus 17:9

That man shall be cut off. Verses 1–7 present legislation intended to separate the Israelites from the contaminating influence of the Egyptians (see ch. 18:3). That God considered the matter of great importance is evident from the punishment for transgression. For certain infractions of the laws concerned with physical uncleanness God ordained the rites of purification. In other matters He required a sacrifice, and in certain cases restitution. But here He prescribes the same severe penalty of excommunication that came upon the offender on the Day of Atonement if he failed to humble himself. The “stranger” was included in this regulation (v. 8). In his case at least, to be “cut off” probably meant exclusion from the privileges of fellowship with God’s people (see on Gen. 17:14; Ex. 12:15).

Israel had many things to learn, and God designed that these lessons should be learned in the wilderness. Here, they were a compact group; they neither sowed nor reaped, and could devote undivided attention to the instruction given them. For instance, their daily bread came directly from heaven, ever reminding them of their dependence upon God.

The command to slaughter all animals at the door of the sanctuary was rescinded after Israel entered Canaan (see Deut. 12:15, 20, 21). All sacrificial animals were then to be brought to the tabernacle; but if the slaying was for daily food, they might kill the animal at home. Presumably by that time Israel had learned the lesson God designed to teach; furthermore, the mixed multitude was no longer a snare to them.

To offer it. Prior to Sinai, Israel had been without an appointed priesthood. The father had been the priest of his family; but now God ordered a change, and called upon all to comply with it. Men were not merely to worship, but to worship in God’s appointed manner. They were to recognize the appointed leaders. They were to abstain from prohibited things, to honor God with their substance, and to refrain from ungodly gatherings. God did not forbid social gatherings, but such as were held must be of a character consistent with sanctuary surroundings. There must be no convivial feasts.