Exodus lays the foundation for Leviticus by introducing the covenant relationship between God and Israel, the law, the priesthood, and the tabernacle—all of which prepare the way for the detailed instructions on worship and holiness given in Leviticus.
First, Exodus reveals that God redeemed Israel from Egypt to make them His people and to dwell among them:
“And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.” (Exodus 25:8)
The book closes with the construction of the tabernacle and the glory of the Lord filling it (Exodus 40:34–35). This sets the stage for Leviticus, which explains how Israel is to maintain fellowship with a holy God who now dwells in their midst.
Exodus also establishes the priesthood through Aaron and his sons, including their consecration and the garments required for service (Exodus 28–29). Leviticus builds on this by outlining their duties and the sacrificial system in detail.
Furthermore, Exodus gives the Ten Commandments and the Book of the Covenant (chapters 20–24), which serve as the moral and civil framework for Israel. Leviticus then expands on these laws with ceremonial regulations, sacrifices, and laws of purity to teach holiness in every aspect of life.
In short, Exodus provides the structure: God’s presence, the covenant, and the priesthood. While Leviticus provides the regulations that govern how to worship and live in holiness before God. Without Exodus, Leviticus would lack its context; without Leviticus, the covenant relationship established in Exodus could not be properly maintained.
