Which book of the Old Testament primarily focuses on laws and regulations for the Israelites?

The book that primarily focuses on laws and regulations for the Israelites is Leviticus. This book serves as a manual for the priests and the Israelite community, detailing various laws related to worship, moral conduct, ritual purity, and sacrificial practices.

Leviticus is distinct in that it emphasizes the holiness of God and outlines the guidelines for how the Israelites should live in a way that reflects that holiness. It provides specific instructions on offerings, festivals, dietary restrictions, and the roles of the priests, ensuring that the people understand their covenant relationship with God and how to maintain it.

While Exodus contains significant laws and events, such as the Ten Commandments and the Israelites' escape from Egypt, its primary narrative focus is on the deliverance and establishment of God’s covenant with Israel. Genesis primarily discusses the creation, patriarchs, and beginnings of the Israelite nation, while Deuteronomy restates and elaborates on the laws previously given, preparing the Israelites for life in the Promised Land. The centrality of legal and ceremonial guidelines makes Leviticus the key book for understanding regulations specific to Israelite life.