Leviticus 16:1-10

Why can Aaron not enter behind the veil whenever he chooses?

Berean Standard Bible

1 Now the LORD spoke to Moses after the death of two of Aaron’s sons when they approached the presence of the LORD. 2 And the LORD said to Moses: “Tell your brother Aaron not to enter freely into the Most Holy Place behind the veil in front of the mercy seat on the ark, or else he will die, because I appear in the cloud above the mercy seat. 3 This is how Aaron is to enter the Holy Place: with a young bull for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering. 4 He is to wear the sacred linen tunic, with linen undergarments. He must tie a linen sash around him and put on the linen turban. These are holy garments, and he must bathe himself with water before he wears them. 5 And he shall take from the congregation of Israel two male goats for a sin offering and one ram for a burnt offering. 6 Aaron is to present the bull for his sin offering and make atonement for himself and his household. 7 Then he shall take the two goats and present them before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. 8 After Aaron casts lots for the two goats, one for the LORD and the other for the scapegoat, 9 he shall present the goat chosen by lot for the LORD and sacrifice it as a sin offering. 10 But the goat chosen by lot as the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the LORD to make atonement by sending it into the wilderness as the scapegoat.

What is the context?

The chapter expressly recalls the deaths of Aaron’s sons. The Lord restricts entry behind the veil and gives the clothing, washing, and offerings required for Aaron’s approach. Even the high priest must not treat God’s presence casually.

The bull concerns Aaron and his household, while two goats and a ram are supplied for the people. Lots assign the goats’ distinct roles: one is sacrificed and the other remains alive for removal into the wilderness. The later paragraphs explain both actions.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley reads the plain linen garments in relation to humility rather than festal display. The USCCB notes emphasize controlled access and the Day of Atonement setting. The chapter presents an appointed approach; it does not state that the priest’s office itself frees him from the danger of disregarding God’s instruction.

Where does this fit in God's plan?

Hebrews 10:19–25 explicitly describes confidence to enter God’s presence through Jesus’ blood and the new way opened through His body. Its call to draw near, hold hope, and encourage one another shows the fuller purpose of access through Christ. This comparison preserves both the earlier restriction and the New Testament’s invitation.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

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