Overview of Leviticus 19–21 (KJV)

God calls Israel to holiness: “Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy.” (v.2)
Commands include: honoring parents, keeping the Sabbath, rejecting idols.
Laws about sacrifices: offerings must be eaten in time, not left until the third day.
Instructions for justice and compassion: leave gleanings of fields for the poor and stranger; do not steal, lie, or swear falsely.
Fairness: no oppression, no favoritism, just balances.
Prohibition against occult practices (enchantments, tattoos, witchcraft).
Love commanded: “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” (v.18)

Severe punishments for sins like child sacrifice to Molech, consulting familiar spirits, adultery, incest, homosexuality, and bestiality.
These acts are called “abominations” and bring defilement of the land.
God emphasizes Israel’s separation: “Ye shall be holy unto me: for I the LORD am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine.” (v.26)

Priests must avoid defilement from the dead except for close relatives.
No cuttings or profaning themselves; priests must be holy to the Lord.
High priest must not uncover his head or rend his clothes, nor marry a widow, divorced woman, or harlot—only a virgin.
Priests with physical blemishes cannot offer sacrifices, though they may eat the holy bread.
Emphasis: God’s priests must reflect His holiness.

? Central Themes

Holiness: God’s people must be distinct from the nations.
Justice and Love: Practical holiness includes loving one’s neighbor and living righteously.
Separation: Both people and priests are set apart to serve a holy God.
Judgment: Sin defiles and brings consequences; obedience brings blessing.