The term “statute” is related to the verb which means, “to engrave” or “inscribe.” The phrase “statute forever” (ḥǔqqǎṯ ‘ôlām) occurs in the Old Testament to describe events such as the celebration of the Passover (Exodus 12:14), the feast of Unleavened Bread (Exodus 12:17), and the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:29, Leviticus 16:31, Leviticus 16:34). Thus, the peace offering is to be practised at all times and under all circumstances. To put it another way, this ordinance is a perpetual one that lasts throughout all of Israel’s generations.
17 C'est ici une loi perpétuelle pour vos descendants, dans tous les lieux où vous habiterez: vous ne mangerez ni graisse ni sang.