Divine Presence and Community: A Commentary on the Book of Leviticus

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“The smoke in the holy of holies functions to ‘veil’ and at the same time to ‘reveal’ the presence of Yahweh” (Page 96)

“As already noted, the tabernacle must be located within the context of creation theology (Gorman 1993, 50–59). The parallels between the instructions for the construction of the tabernacle (Exod. 25–31) and the process of creation (Gen. 1:1–2:4a; see Kearney 1977; Levenson 1988, 80–86; Fretheim 1991, 268–72; Fishbane 1979, 11–13), the erection of the tabernacle on the first day of the first month (Exod. 40:17), and the concluding statement that ‘Moses finished the work’ (Exod. 40:33b; cf. Gen. 2:2; see Blenkinsopp 1976, 280–83; Lohfink 1982), all suggest that the tabernacle is to be situated within the context of creation theology. It reflects God’s ongoing creative activity in the world.” (Page 13)

“Thus, in the priestly traditions seven indicates movement and passage. This emphasizes that ritual processes are concerned with movement, passage, restoration, construction, and reconstruction. They effect changes in status: from impurity to purity (14:1–20); from common to holy (8:1–36); from chaos to order (16:1–34).” (Page 10)

“The instructions focus primarily, although certainly not exclusively, on social relations. Holiness in community relations means interacting faithfully with other members of the community. This is one means of manifesting the divine life in the world. The call to holiness is a call to imitate Yahweh.” (Page 14)

“In this context, the phrase emphasizes that the instructions are grounded in the divine life. The divine life is present within the instructions, and it will be concretized as the community observes these instructions.” (Page 112)