Leviticus 22:27

"When an ox, a sheep, or a goat is born, it must remain with its mother for seven days. From the eighth day on, it will be acceptable as an offering made by fire to the LORD.

Study Bible

When an ox, a sheep, or a goat is born
This phrase highlights the specific animals used in sacrificial offerings, which were common in ancient Israelite worship. Oxen, sheep, and goats were domesticated animals integral to the agrarian lifestyle of the Israelites. These animals were considered clean according to Levitical law and were often used in various offerings and sacrifices. The choice of these animals underscores their value and significance in the community, both economically and religiously.

it must remain with its mother for seven days
The requirement for the newborn animal to stay with its mother for seven days reflects a period of completeness and wholeness, as the number seven often symbolizes in the Bible. This time allows the animal to gain strength and ensures it is viable. The seven-day period also mirrors the creation week, suggesting a divine order and completeness in the natural world. This practice may have also had practical implications, ensuring the animal's health and survival before being considered for sacrifice.

From the eighth day on
The eighth day marks a new beginning, a theme consistent throughout Scripture. The number eight often signifies a new order or creation, as seen in the practice of circumcision on the eighth day (Genesis 17:12). This transition from the seventh to the eighth day indicates readiness and acceptability before God, symbolizing a move from natural to spiritual service.

it will be acceptable as a food offering
The term "acceptable" indicates that the offering meets the standards set by God for worship. The food offering, or "korban," was a way for the Israelites to express devotion, thanksgiving, and atonement. This acceptability underscores the importance of following divine instructions precisely, reflecting the holiness and purity required in worship.

presented to the LORD
The act of presenting the offering to the LORD signifies the dedication and consecration of the sacrifice to God. It emphasizes the relationship between the Israelites and their God, where offerings were a means of maintaining covenantal fellowship. This presentation is a precursor to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is often typified as the Lamb of God, offered once for all (John 1:29, Hebrews 10:10). The sacrificial system foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, who fulfills and transcends these offerings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people to whom the laws were given, God's chosen people, living under the covenant.

3. Ox, Sheep, Goat
Animals specified in the law for sacrificial offerings, representing the livestock of the Israelites.

4. The LORD
The God of Israel, who established the sacrificial system as a means of worship and atonement.

5. Tabernacle
The place where offerings were made, serving as the dwelling place of God among His people.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Waiting
The requirement for animals to remain with their mother for seven days teaches patience and the importance of maturity before offering to God.

Symbolism of the Eighth Day
The eighth day represents new beginnings and completeness, pointing to the resurrection of Christ and the new creation.

Holiness in Offerings
The law emphasizes that offerings to God must be without blemish and given at the right time, reflecting the holiness and perfection required in worship.

God's Provision and Order
The specific instructions for offerings show God's care for His creation and His desire for order and intentionality in worship.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Understanding the sacrificial system helps us appreciate Christ's role as the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the law and providing eternal redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for animals to stay with their mother for seven days before being offered relate to the concept of spiritual maturity in our lives?

2. In what ways does the symbolism of the eighth day in Leviticus 22:27 connect to the resurrection of Jesus and the new covenant?

3. How can we apply the principle of giving our best to God in our daily lives, as seen in the requirement for unblemished offerings?

4. What does the sacrificial system in Leviticus teach us about the nature of God and His expectations for worship?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice as described in the book of Hebrews?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 17
The practice of circumcision on the eighth day parallels the offering of animals, signifying a new beginning and covenant relationship with God.

Exodus 22
Discusses the importance of firstborn animals and their dedication to God, emphasizing the principle of giving the best to the Lord.

Luke 2
Jesus' presentation at the temple on the eighth day highlights the fulfillment of the law and the significance of the number eight in new beginnings.

Hebrews 10
Explains the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Christ, who is the perfect offering.