“AFFLICT OURSELVES?” LEV. 23:27

For those in the ‘Read The Bible In A Year Plan’ we are in Leviticus.

An interesting phrase emerges around The Day of Atonement:

“Afflict yourselves”

Below I’ll put what ChatGPT says about it.

But, here’s my question: How do you see Jesus through it?

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In Leviticus 23:27, the directive to “afflict yourselves” pertains to the observance of the Day of Atonement, known as Yom Kippur. This phrase has been traditionally interpreted to mean practicing self-denial, primarily through fasting. The Hebrew term used, “anah,” conveys the idea of humbling or afflicting oneself. This interpretation is supported by passages such as Isaiah 58:3, which links fasting to self-affliction: “Why have we fasted… and you see it not? Why have we humbled ourselves… and you take no knowledge of it?” 

Beyond abstaining from food and drink, historical practices on Yom Kippur included refraining from bathing, anointing with oils, wearing leather footwear, and engaging in marital relations. These acts of self-denial aimed to foster humility, reflection, and repentance among the community. 

Thus, the command to “afflict yourselves” serves as a call to humble oneself, engage in introspection, and seek atonement through specific practices that express devotion and penitence.