The answer is: God said, "the blood is the life."

Deut 12:23

When delving into the prohibition against consuming blood in the book of Deuteronomy, it’s fascinating to consider the broader cultural significance surrounding blood in ancient societies, including the Israelite community. In their eyes, blood was not merely a vital fluid; it was the essence of life itself. The scripture states that “the blood is the life” (Deut 12:23), suggesting a deep reverence held towards blood as sacred. Not only was it morally significant, but it also symbolized the covenant between the Israelites and their God.

This emphasis on blood sheds light on various rituals, particularly in the context of animal sacrifices, which were common practice in their worship. Such sacrifices were about maintaining a life-giving relationship with the divine, highlighting a notion of respect for life and the allowance of life itself for spiritual sustenance.

In interesting parallel practices, many ancient Near Eastern cultures shared similar views concerning blood, incorporating them into their own rituals. For example, the significance of blood in covenant-making was an essential aspect in surrounding nations as well.

You might be surprised to learn that this theme of life in blood pre-dates Judaism and continues to resonate culturally, being echoed in various religious systems, including modern dietary regulations in communities, signifying an innate human desire to respect and honor the bearer of life. How about that for seamless threads in the tapestry of human spirituality!