Deuteronomy 12:16

One Place for Worship · Deuteronomy 12:1–28
Read Deuteronomy 12

Translations

Modern
…but you must not eat the blood; pour it on the ground like water.
Traditional
Only ye shall not eat the blood; ye shall pour it upon the earth as water.
Literal
Only the blood you shall not eat; you shall pour it on the earth like water.
Latin
…absque esu dumtaxat sanguinis, quem super terram quasi aquam effundes.

Original

Hebrew
English
…but you must not eat the blood; pour it on the ground like water.

Notes

The rule against eating blood applied to both sacrificial animals and those killed for food. Blood represented life, so it was holy and belonged only to God. This principle existed from the beginning of creation and came before the law was given (Genesis 4:10–11; 9:4–6; Leviticus 17:11). See also study note on Leviticus 7:26–27.

Theme notes and profiles

Ancient Law Codes

Glossary

Archaeology and the Bible Biblical Concept of Law Cleanness and Uncleanness, Regulations Concerning Covenant Deer Deuteronomy, Book of Dietary Laws Kings, Books of First and Second Offerings and Sacrifices Tithe, Tithing

Topics

Beasts: Not to be Eaten Alive or with Blood Blood of Animals Slain for Good to be Poured on the Earth Blood Transfusion Blood: Fluid Blood: Forbidden to be Used As Food Sanitation: Food