In today’s reading, the LORD gives the laws concerning uncleanness in both men and women, and describes in great detail the annual ceremony of atonement to be performed by the High Priest, including the use of the scapegoat. The LORD then gives laws about special sacrifices, and forbids unlawful sexual relations, including, but not limited to, incest, homosexuality, and bestiality, and describes such acts in no uncertain terms: abomination, confusion, defilement. He then issues a series of widely varied commandments concerning personal holiness and behavior, reinforcing a number of the Ten Commandments, and forbidding theft, abuse of the disabled, corrupt judgment, prostitution and sorcery, and commanding love for one’s neighbor and a willingness to rebuke to keep sin from his door.

Into/Outro music: "Unexpectedly" (c) 1995 Alex Grant Used by permission