The Unfortunate Incident of Nadab and Abihu: The historical narrative continues through chapter 10, a narrative of joy interrupted by trouble. Such a pattern is not unusual in the Hebrew Scriptures and in this case raises important issues about obedience in the life of the people. In a sense this incident mars the climax to the inauguration of tabernacle worship in Leviticus 9:22–24, but it also punctuates the story with a startling reassertion of Yahweh’s holiness. The unfortunate incident of Nadab and Abihu confirms that improper preparation for encountering that holiness is dangerous. The episode leads to further precautions and reiterates the instruction on priestly rights and responsibilities from chapters 6–7.

10:1–3 The chapter begins with the sudden and stunning deaths of Aaron’s tw…