The Goodness of God: Leviticus

“Behold” – A Call to Attention in Leviticus

I am that crazy person that loves the book of Leviticus. The book of Leviticus, often seen as a detailed manual of laws and rituals, holds hidden gems that invite us into a deeper relationship with God. One such gem is the word “Behold” (Hebrew: hinneh, Strong’s H2009). While this word might seem small or inconsequential in our English translations, in the original Hebrew, it carries significant weight—a divine call to stop, pay attention, and fully engage in what God is about to reveal.

“Behold” in Leviticus – The Divine Invitation

 In Leviticus, “hinneh” is often used in connection with moments of Divine revelation or instruction, acting as a holy pause before something significant. Here are a few key verses where the word “Behold” appears:

1. Leviticus 10:16 –

“And Moses diligently sought the goat of the sin offering, and, *behold* (hinneh), it was burnt: and he was angry with Eleazar and Ithamar, the sons of Aaron which were left alive, saying…”

   - Here, “hinneh” draws attention to Moses’ discovery. It’s a moment of realization that something important had gone wrong in the priestly process. This “behold” calls us to take stock of where things are amiss in our spiritual practices and take appropriate action.

2. Leviticus 13:3 –

“And the priest shall look on the plague in the skin of the flesh: and when the hair in the plague is turned white, and the plague in sight be deeper than the skin of his flesh, it is a plague of leprosy: and the priest shall look on him, and “behold “(hinneh) if the hair in the plague be turned white, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean.”

   - In this verse, “hinneh” highlights the priest’s judgment in determining whether someone is ceremonially clean or unclean. This moment of “behold” brings attention to the gravity of discernment and evaluation—calling us to examine the areas of our lives that may need purification or repentance. 

3. Leviticus 14:39 –

“And the priest shall come again the seventh day, and shall look: and, “behold” (hinneh) if the plague be spread in the walls of the house…”

   - Once again, “hinneh” is used when the priest inspects for a sign of spreading plague. It emphasizes the act of carefully observing what has transpired, a reminder for us to reflect on the spiritual condition of our own “houses” (our lives) and relationships.

In these examples, “Behold” alerts us to significant moments of discernment, revelation, or consequence. In Leviticus, the word acts as a spotlight, drawing our attention to situations where God’s instructions require careful observation and thoughtful response.

How “Behold” Applies to Our Lives Today

While we no longer live under the Levitical system of sacrifices and rituals, the invitation to “Behold” is just as relevant for us today. Let’s explore a few practical ways we can live out this Divine call to attention:

1. Behold God’s Grace in Prayer (Hebrews 4:16):

   Just as the priests were called to examine the physical condition of the people and the house, we are called to examine our hearts. In prayer, the word “Behold” urges us to pause before we present our requests. Take a moment to reflect on God’s holiness and His invitation to boldly approach His throne of grace. When you pray, don’t rush in and out—pause and “Behold” the presence of God, just as the priests would pause to assess the people’s condition before offering sacrifices.

2. Behold His Word with Intention (Psalm 119:18):

   When you read Scripture, approach it with the mindset of “Beholding.” The word “hinneh” in Leviticus reminds us that God’s Word deserves our full attention. Pray as the psalmist did, “Open my eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of your Torah.” Each time we open the Bible, there is something wondrous for us to see—if only we will “Behold” it with open hearts and minds.

3. Behold the Needs of Others (1 John 3:17):

   Just as the priests in Leviticus were called to “Behold” the physical and spiritual needs of the community, we too, are called to be attentive to those around us. Are there people in your life whose needs you have overlooked? The command to “Behold” reminds us to pause and pay attention to the needs of others, offering them grace, support, and love. As 1 John 3:17 says, “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?”

Behold—A Call to Deepen Our Spiritual Awareness

The word “Behold” in Leviticus was a Divine pause before important moments, a call to focus and engage fully. It still carries that same meaning for us today. God always invites us to “Behold”—to see the world, His Word, and our relationship with Him through fresh eyes. He calls us to slow down, pay attention, and approach Him with reverence and expectancy.

Through Yeshua, the ultimate High Priest, we are no longer restricted to the Levitical system, but the spiritual principles remain. Just as the priests paused to “Behold” the condition of the people and the offerings, we are called to examine our hearts and lives so we may draw near to God in spirit and truth.

Verses to Reflect On:

• Leviticus 10:16

• Leviticus 13:3

• Leviticus 14:39

• Hebrews 4:16

• 1 John 3:17

• Psalm 119:18 

Let us heed the call to “Behold”. Whether in prayer, reading the Word, or interacting with others, may we always be aware of the divine moments where God invites us to pause and enter His presence with intention and awe.

Reflection Questions:

- Where in your life do you feel God calling you to “Behold”?

- How can you create space in your prayer life to pause and reflect before the Lord?

- Are there people around you who need your attention, grace, or love?

God is inviting us to “Behold” Him daily. Let’s take that invitation seriously and respond with open hearts.

Beholding my King,

Dr. Charli Brown