Verses 1-2
Because the Israelites were God’s sons (Deuteronomy 14:1; i.e., because of their special intimate relationship with Yahweh) they were to eat and act as He directed here (cf. Deuteronomy 1:31; Deuteronomy 8:5). This is the first of two affirmations of Israel being God’s special possession, His chosen people, in Deuteronomy (cf. Deuteronomy 26:18). [Note: See Fruchtenbaum, pp. 114-15.]
Self-mutilation and shaving the forehead were pagan practices associated with idolatry. The Canaanites did these things to express passionate sorrow for the dead. Laceration may have been a seasonal rite in the Baal fertility cults as well. [Note: John Gray, The Legacy of Canaan, p. 252. Cf. 1 Kings 18:28.]
"The external appearance of the people should reflect their internal status as the chosen and holy people of God." [Note: Gordon J. Wenham, The Book of Leviticus, p. 272.]
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