◄ Leviticus 3 ►
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Laws for Peace Offerings (Leviticus 7:11–21) 1“If one’s offering is a peace offering and he offers an animal from the herd, whether male or female, he must present it without blemish before the LORD. 2He is to lay his hand on the head of the offering and slaughter it at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. Then Aaron’s sons the priests shall splatter the blood on all sides of the altar. 3From the peace offering he is to bring a food offering to the LORD: the fat that covers the entrails, all the fat that is on them, 4both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys. 5Then Aaron’s sons are to burn it on the altar atop the burnt offering that is on the burning wood, as a food offering, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. 6If, however, one’s peace offering to the LORD is from the flock, he must present a male or female without blemish. 7If he is presenting a lamb for his offering, he must present it before the LORD. 8He is to lay his hand on the head of his offering and slaughter it in front of the Tent of Meeting. Then Aaron’s sons shall splatter its blood on all sides of the altar. 9And from the peace offering he shall bring a food offering to the LORD consisting of its fat: the entire fat tail cut off close to the backbone, the fat that covers the entrails, all the fat that is on them, 10both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys. 11Then the priest is to burn them on the altar as food, a food offering to the LORD. 12If one’s offering is a goat, he is to present it before the LORD. 13He must lay his hand on its head and slaughter it in front of the Tent of Meeting. Then Aaron’s sons shall splatter its blood on all sides of the altar. 14And from his offering he shall present a food offering to the LORD: the fat that covers the entrails, all the fat that is on them, 15both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys. 16Then the priest is to burn the food on the altar as a food offering, a pleasing aroma. All the fat is the LORD’s. 17This is a permanent statute for the generations to come, wherever you live: You must not eat any fat or any blood.” Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Leviticus 3 Summary Laws for Peace Offerings Verses 1–5 – Fellowship Offering from Cattle The chapter opens by describing a voluntary “fellowship” (or “peace”) offering from the herd. An Israelite may bring “a male or female without blemish” (v. 1). The worshiper personally lays a hand on the animal’s head, identifying with it, and slaughters it at the Tent of Meeting. Aaron’s sons sprinkle the blood on every side of the altar (v. 2). Only select inner fat, both kidneys, and the liver lobe are placed on the altar fire “as an aroma pleasing to the LORD” (vv. 3–5). Everything else is reserved for a communal meal. Verses 6–11 – Fellowship Offering from Sheep If the offering comes from the flock, the same core steps apply, but with a special note: the entire fat tail of the sheep—prized in the ancient Near East—is removed and burned (vv. 6–9). All inward fat and organs named earlier are likewise consumed on the altar (vv. 10–11). The sheep may be male or female, yet still must be flawless. Verses 12–17 – Fellowship Offering from Goats and Perpetual Prohibition Goats are acceptable as well, following identical ritual motions (vv. 12–15). The fat is burned, “an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma” (v. 16). The closing verse issues a standing rule for all generations: “You must not eat any fat or any blood” (v. 17). Fat belongs wholly to God; blood represents life itself. The chapter provides a detailed examination of the peace offering rituals, offering guidelines based on the type of animal being sacrificed. The peace offering, given freely out of devotion to God, emphasizes communal peace, gratitude, and fellowship. This offering also exhibits a deep commitment to adhering to the sacred traditions passed down through generations. The Fellowship Offering in Israel’s Worship Life • One of five core sacrifices (burnt, grain, fellowship, sin, guilt), the fellowship offering celebrates restored harmony with God. • It is voluntary—often brought in gratitude, to fulfill a vow, or simply to rejoice (Leviticus 7:11-18). • After a token portion is burned, the worshiper, family, friends, and priests share a festive meal in God’s presence, turning sacrifice into fellowship. Purpose and Significance 1. Thanksgiving: Psalm 107:22 urges, “Let them sacrifice thank offerings.” 2. Peace with God: Blood on the altar signals cleansing (Leviticus 17:11), paving the way for shared table fellowship. 3. Joyful communion: Deuteronomy 27:7 commands, “Sacrifice fellowship offerings and eat them there, rejoicing in the presence of the LORD.” Animal Requirements and Ritual Details • Acceptable animals: cattle, sheep, goats—domestic, valuable, and accessible to ordinary households. • Gender: male or female, unlike the burnt offering that specified males (Leviticus 1:3). • Physical perfection: “without blemish” underscores offering the best, not leftovers (Malachi 1:8). • Key ritual steps: – Laying on of hands (identification, ownership, dedication). – Slaughter by the offerer (personal involvement in worship). – Blood dashed by priests (vicarious life given to secure peace). – Inside fat, kidneys, liver lobe burned (the richest parts returned to God). – Remaining meat shared in sacred meal (Leviticus 7 clarifies time limits for eating). The Role of Fat and Blood “All the fat belongs to the LORD” (3:16). In a culture where fat was a delicacy, surrendering it honored God. Blood, holding the life (Genesis 9:4), is never consumed (Leviticus 17:10-14). New-Testament believers, too, are cautioned to abstain from blood (Acts 15:20), showing the principle remained vital among early Christians. Priestly Portions and Worshiper’s Meal Leviticus 7:28-36 explains that priests receive the breast and right thigh. The rest is enjoyed by the giver, family, servants, and the poor—everyone symbolically dining with God. The meal must be eaten while still fresh, driving home joyful participation rather than hoarding. Connections to Other Sacrificial Laws Unlike the burnt offering (completely consumed) or the sin offering (focused on guilt removal), the fellowship offering spotlights relationship. Yet even here blood must be shed—reminding worshipers that peace is always blood-bought (Hebrews 9:22). Foreshadowings of Christ • Christ “himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14). His cross achieved the reality prefigured by the fellowship offering—reconciliation. • Romans 5:1 echoes the feast’s message: “Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” • The Lord’s Supper likewise blends sacrifice and shared meal (1 Corinthians 10:16), inviting believers to sit at the table of fellowship made possible by Jesus’ spilled blood. Archaeological and Cultural Background • Excavations at Tel Arad and Beersheba reveal altars sized for small animals, matching Leviticus’ domestic scope. • Reliefs from ancient Ugarit depict rams with exaggerated fat tails, confirming the premium value of this portion. • Contemporary pagan rituals often allowed priests to eat blood; Israel’s ban distinguished its worship and underscored life’s sanctity. Practical Takeaways • God delights in joyful, wholehearted worship, not mere formality. Giving our “best portions” today—time, energy, resources—mirrors the ancient fat offering. • True peace with God leads to peace with others; the communal meal anticipates unity in the body of Christ (Acts 2:46). • The perpetual statute against blood reminds believers to respect life, cherish purity, and find cleansing only in the blood God Himself provided through His Son. Links to Other Scriptures Genesis 31:54 – Jacob and Laban seal peace with a meal. Psalm 23:5 – “You prepare a table before me,” echoing divine hospitality. Isaiah 25:6 – Prophecy of a future banquet on Mount Zion. Revelation 19:9 – “Blessed are those invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb,” the ultimate fellowship offering fulfilled. Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 13:15-16 These verses encourage believers to continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, connecting the concept of Old Testament sacrifices to New Testament worship. Romans 12:1 Paul urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is our true and proper worship. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 Paul speaks of the Lord’s Supper as a participation in the body and blood of Christ, echoing the communal aspect of the peace offering. Teaching Points Purpose of the Peace Offering Leviticus 3 describes the peace offering as a voluntary act of worship, symbolizing fellowship and thanksgiving to God. It was distinct from sin offerings, focusing on communion rather than atonement. Specific Instructions The chapter provides detailed instructions on how the peace offering should be made, including the types of animals that could be offered and the parts that were to be burned on the altar. This precision underscores the holiness and orderliness of worship. Symbolism of Fat and Blood Verses 16-17 highlight the prohibition against eating fat and blood, symbolizing the offering of the best to God and the sacredness of life. Communal Aspect The peace offering was unique in that it was shared among the offerer, the priests, and God, representing a communal meal and fellowship. Practical Applications Worship with Gratitude Just as the peace offering was a voluntary act of thanksgiving, we are encouraged to approach God with hearts full of gratitude, recognizing His blessings in our lives. Holiness in Worship The detailed instructions remind us of the importance of approaching God with reverence and respect, ensuring our worship is sincere and orderly. Community and Fellowship The communal nature of the peace offering encourages us to foster fellowship within our church communities, sharing in the joy and blessings of God together. Offering Our Best The prohibition against consuming fat and blood challenges us to offer the best of our time, resources, and talents to God. People 1. The Offerer This is the individual who brings the peace offering to the LORD. The offerer is responsible for presenting the animal sacrifice, which could be from the herd or flock, and must be without blemish. The Hebrew term for the offerer is often implied rather than explicitly stated, as the instructions are directed to "anyone" or "he" who brings the offering. 2. The Sons of Aaron (The Priests) These are the descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses, who serve as priests. They are responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals, including sprinkling the blood around the altar and burning the fat portions on the altar. The Hebrew term used is "בְּנֵי אַהֲרֹן" (b'nei Aharon), meaning "sons of Aaron." 3. The LORD (Yahweh) While not a human person, the LORD is the divine recipient of the peace offerings. The offerings are made to Him as a form of worship and thanksgiving. The Hebrew name used is "יְהוָה" (YHWH), often rendered as "the LORD" in English translations. Places 1. The Tabernacle of Meeting (Tent of Meeting) This is the central place where the Israelites would bring their offerings. The Tabernacle served as the dwelling place of God among His people and was the designated location for sacrifices. The Hebrew term "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (Ohel Mo'ed) refers to this sacred tent where God met with Moses and the priests. 2. The Altar Located within the Tabernacle courtyard, the altar is where the offerings were made. In Leviticus 3, the fat and certain parts of the peace offerings are burned on the altar. The Hebrew word for altar is "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), which signifies a place of sacrifice. 3. The Entrance to the Tent of Meeting This is where the offering is presented before the Lord. The entrance serves as a transitional space between the outer courtyard and the inner sanctum of the Tabernacle, symbolizing the approach to God's presence. Events 1. Presentation of the Peace Offering The chapter begins with instructions for presenting a Peace Offering to the LORD. The offering can be from the herd, either male or female, but it must be without blemish. This requirement for the offering to be "without blemish" (Hebrew: תָּמִים, tamim) signifies the need for purity and perfection in offerings to God. 2. Laying on of Hands and Slaughter The person offering the sacrifice is to lay their hand on the head of the offering and slaughter it at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting. This act of laying on hands (Hebrew: סָמַךְ, samak) symbolizes the transfer of the offeror's identity or intent onto the animal. 3. Sprinkling of Blood Aaron's sons, the priests, are to sprinkle the blood of the offering around the altar. The sprinkling of blood (Hebrew: זָרַק, zaraq) is a critical ritual act that signifies purification and atonement. 4. Offering of Fat and Internal Organs Specific parts of the animal, including all the fat covering the entrails, the kidneys, and the lobe of the liver, are to be offered on the altar. The fat (Hebrew: חֵלֶב, chelev) is considered the best part and is reserved for God, symbolizing the offering of the best to the LORD. 5. Burning on the Altar The fat and specified parts are to be burned on the altar as a food offering, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. The burning (Hebrew: קָטַר, qatar) represents the complete dedication of the offering to God. 6. Prohibition of Eating Fat and Blood The chapter concludes with a perpetual statute for the Israelites, prohibiting the consumption of fat and blood. This prohibition (Hebrew: חֻקָּה, chuqqah) underscores the sacredness of life and the importance of respecting God's commands. Lessons from Leviticus 3 1. The Peace Offering: A Symbol of Fellowship Leviticus 3 introduces us to the peace offering, a beautiful symbol of fellowship and reconciliation with God. This offering was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and a desire for communion with the Creator. It reminds us that our relationship with God is not just about rules but about a heartfelt connection. As it is written, "If his offering is a peace offering and he offers an animal from the herd, whether male or female, he must present it without blemish before the LORD" (Leviticus 3:1). This teaches us the importance of approaching God with sincerity and purity of heart. 2. The Role of Sacrifice in Worship Sacrifice is central to the worship described in Leviticus, pointing us to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The peace offering involved the shedding of blood, foreshadowing the sacrifice of Christ, who "was delivered over to death for our trespasses and was raised to life for our justification" (Romans 4:25). This lesson encourages us to remember the cost of our salvation and to live lives of gratitude and worship. 3. The Importance of Offering the Best In Leviticus 3, the Israelites were instructed to offer animals without blemish. This requirement underscores the importance of giving our best to God. "You must present it without blemish before the LORD" (Leviticus 3:1). In our daily lives, this translates to offering our best efforts, time, and resources in service to God and others, reflecting our love and devotion. 4. The Significance of Fat and Blood The chapter emphasizes that the fat and blood of the offering were to be given to God, symbolizing the best and the life of the animal. "All the fat belongs to the LORD" (Leviticus 3:16). This teaches us to dedicate the best parts of our lives to God and to recognize that life itself is a gift from Him, to be lived in His service. 5. The Call to Holiness Leviticus 3, like much of the book, calls us to holiness. The detailed instructions for offerings remind us that God is holy and desires His people to be set apart. "Be holy, because I am holy" (1 Peter 1:16). This lesson encourages us to pursue holiness in our thoughts, actions, and relationships, reflecting God's character in all we do. 6. The Joy of Fellowship with God The peace offering was a joyful occasion, often accompanied by a communal meal. It highlights the joy and satisfaction found in fellowship with God and His people. "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him" (Psalm 34:8). This reminds us that true joy is found in a relationship with God, shared with others in community. 7. The Role of the Priesthood The priests played a crucial role in facilitating the offerings, pointing us to Jesus, our High Priest. "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses" (Hebrews 4:15). This lesson encourages us to rely on Christ, who intercedes for us and understands our struggles, guiding us in our spiritual journey. 8. The Principle of Obedience Leviticus 3 teaches the importance of obedience to God's commands. The detailed instructions for offerings remind us that God values obedience over sacrifice. "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1 Samuel 15:22). This lesson challenges us to prioritize obedience in our walk with God, trusting His wisdom and guidance. 9. The Reminder of God's Provision The peace offering was a reminder of God's provision and blessings. It was a way for the Israelites to acknowledge God's goodness and faithfulness. "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalm 23:1). This lesson encourages us to trust in God's provision and to express gratitude for His abundant blessings in our lives. 10. The Invitation to Worship Finally, Leviticus 3 invites us to a life of worship. The peace offering was an act of worship, inviting the Israelites to draw near to God. "Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker" (Psalm 95:6). This lesson calls us to live lives of worship, continually seeking God's presence and glorifying Him in all we do. Topics 1. Regulations for Peace Offerings from the Herd (Leviticus 3:1-5) This section outlines the procedure for offering a peace offering from the herd, specifically a male or female without blemish. The offerer is to lay their hand on the head of the offering and slaughter it at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting. The priests are to sprinkle the blood on the altar and burn the fat as a food offering to the LORD. The Hebrew word for "without blemish" is "תָּמִים" (tamim), indicating the requirement for purity and perfection in offerings. 2. Regulations for Peace Offerings from the Flock (Leviticus 3:6-11) This section provides instructions for offering a peace offering from the flock, whether a lamb or a goat. Similar to the offering from the herd, the animal must be without blemish. The fat, kidneys, and the lobe of the liver are to be burned on the altar. The emphasis on burning the fat, described as "חֵלֶב" (chelev), signifies the offering of the best parts to God. 3. Prohibition of Eating Fat and Blood (Leviticus 3:12-17) The final section of the chapter prohibits the consumption of fat and blood, which is a perpetual statute for the Israelites. The prohibition underscores the sanctity of life and the importance of offering the best portions to God. The Hebrew word for blood is "דָּם" (dam), which is considered the life force of the creature, and thus reserved for sacrificial purposes. Themes 1. Peace Offerings Leviticus 3 introduces the concept of peace offerings, which are voluntary sacrifices made to express gratitude and fellowship with God. The Hebrew term for peace offering, "שֶׁלֶם" (shelem), implies wholeness or completeness, reflecting the harmonious relationship between the offerer and God. The peace offering is distinct from other sacrifices as it emphasizes communal fellowship and thanksgiving. 2. Animal Sacrifice The chapter details the specific animals that can be offered as peace offerings: cattle, sheep, or goats. Each animal must be "without blemish" (Leviticus 3:1), highlighting the requirement for purity and perfection in offerings to God. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "תָּמִים" (tamim), meaning complete or whole, underscoring the importance of offering the best to God. 3. Blood as Atonement The ritual involves the sprinkling of blood around the altar (Leviticus 3:2), signifying the life force and atoning power of the blood. The Hebrew word "דָּם" (dam) for blood is central to the sacrificial system, symbolizing purification and reconciliation with God. 4. Fat as the Lord’s Portion The fat of the animal is considered the Lord's portion and is burned on the altar (Leviticus 3:3-5). The Hebrew term "חֵלֶב" (chelev) for fat represents the richest part of the animal, signifying the offering of the best to God. This act symbolizes the dedication of the choicest parts of one's life to the Lord. 5. Prohibition of Eating Fat and Blood The chapter concludes with a prohibition against consuming fat and blood (Leviticus 3:17). This command underscores the sacredness of life and the importance of respecting God's designated portions. The Hebrew roots "חֵלֶב" (chelev) for fat and "דָּם" (dam) for blood emphasize the distinct roles these elements play in the sacrificial system and the broader covenant relationship with God. Prayer Points Thanksgiving Pray for a heart of gratitude, recognizing and thanking God for His blessings and provision. Reverence in Worship Ask God to help us approach Him with the reverence and respect He deserves, ensuring our worship is pleasing to Him. Unity in Community Pray for unity and fellowship within our church communities, that we may share in God’s blessings together. Dedication of Our Best Seek God’s guidance in offering the best of our lives to Him, dedicating our time, talents, and resources for His glory. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can we reconcile the commanded burning of select fatty portions (Leviticus 3:3–5) with modern views on health and nutrition? 2. Does any archaeological or historical evidence substantiate the detailed practices regarding the fat tail (Leviticus 3:9)? 3. Why does God require such specific and seemingly arbitrary animal sacrifices in Leviticus 3, yet later biblical texts (e.g., Hosea 6:6) emphasize mercy over rituals? 4. If a loving God exists, what is the moral rationale for repeatedly offering animal blood and fat as stated in Leviticus 3? 5. Does the strict prohibition against consuming blood (Leviticus 3:17) conflict with scientific findings and modern dietary practices? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the term "peace offering" mean to you? 2. What is the significance of choosing an animal "without blemish" for the peace offering? 3. Why do you think the peace offering required the sprinkling of blood on all sides of the altar? 4. How does the act of laying hands on the head of the offering affect your understanding of the ritual? 5. What is the spiritual significance of the "offering made by fire" and its pleasing aroma to God? 6. How does the instruction of removing certain fats and organs for the offering reflect on the symbolic aspects of the ritual? 7. Why do you think all the fat is considered the LORD's? 8. How does the prohibition against eating fat and blood tie into the wider cultural and religious context of the Israelites? 9. What do you believe is the modern-day application of these peace offerings? 10. How can the peace offering ritual enhance our understanding of atonement and reconciliation? 11. What does the phrase "permanent statute for the generations to come" convey about the importance of these rituals in the Israelite tradition? 12. Why do you think the peace offering could be made with a variety of animals (from the herd or flock)? 13. How might the act of making a peace offering affect the individual making the offering? 14. How does the concept of sacrifice in the peace offering challenge us in our spiritual lives today? 15. How does the peace offering underline the role of priests in the Israelite community? 16. What can we learn from the careful and respectful way the Israelites were instructed to handle their offerings? 17. How can we apply the prohibition against eating fat and blood to our spiritual life or ethical decisions today? 18. Why might God have required the specific organs and fats mentioned for the offering? 19. How does this chapter provide insights into God's view of peace and reconciliation? 20. How does the emphasis on the peace offering being "without blemish" challenge you in your personal commitment to God? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions