◄ Leviticus 9 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Aaron’s First Offerings 1On the eighth day Moses summoned Aaron and his sons and the elders of Israel. 2He said to Aaron, “Take for yourself a young bull for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering, both without blemish, and present them before the LORD. 3Then speak to the Israelites and say, ‘Take a male goat for a sin offering, a calf and a lamb—both a year old and without blemish—for a burnt offering, 4an oxa and a ram for a peace offering to sacrifice before the LORD, and a grain offering mixed with oil. For today the LORD will appear to you.’” 5So they took what Moses had commanded to the front of the Tent of Meeting, and the whole congregation drew near and stood before the LORD. 6And Moses said, “This is what the LORD has commanded you to do, so that the glory of the LORD may appear to you.” 7Then Moses said to Aaron, “Approach the altar and sacrifice your sin offering and your burnt offering to make atonement for yourself and for the people. And sacrifice the people’s offering to make atonement for them, as the LORD has commanded.” 8So Aaron approached the altar and slaughtered the calf as a sin offering for himself. 9The sons of Aaron brought the blood to him, and he dipped his finger in the blood and applied it to the horns of the altar. And he poured out the rest of the blood at the base of the altar. 10On the altar he burned the fat, the kidneys, and the lobe of the liver from the sin offering, as the LORD had commanded Moses. 11But he burned up the flesh and the hide outside the camp. 12Then Aaron slaughtered the burnt offering. His sons brought him the blood, and he splattered it on all sides of the altar. 13They brought him the burnt offering piece by piece, including the head, and he burned them on the altar. 14He washed the entrails and the legs and burned them atop the burnt offering on the altar. 15Aaron then presented the people’s offering. He took the male goat for the people’s sin offering, slaughtered it, and offered it for sin like the first one. 16He presented the burnt offering and offered it according to the ordinance. 17Next he presented the grain offering, took a handful of it, and burned it on the altar in addition to the morning’s burnt offering. 18Then he slaughtered the ox and the ram as the people’s peace offering. His sons brought him the blood, and he splattered it on all sides of the altar. 19They also brought the fat portions from the ox and the ram—the fat tail, the fat covering the entrails, the kidneys, and the lobe of the liver— 20and placed these on the breasts. Aaron burned the fat portions on the altar, 21but he waved the breasts and the right thigh as a wave offering before the LORD, as Moses had commanded. 22Aaron lifted up his hands toward the people and blessed them. And having made the sin offering, the burnt offering, and the peace offering, he stepped down. 23Moses and Aaron then entered the Tent of Meeting. When they came out, they blessed the people, and the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people. 24Fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the fat portions on the altar. And when all the people saw it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown. Footnotes: 4 a Or a bull or a cow; also in verses 18 and 19 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 9 Summary Aaron's First Offerings Verses 1–2 – Preparation and Offerings for Aaron Moses calls Aaron, his sons, and the elders on the eighth day after the week-long ordination. Aaron must bring a flawless young bull for a sin offering and a flawless ram for a burnt offering. Verses 3–5 – Offerings for the People The congregation is to supply a male goat for a sin offering, a calf and lamb for a burnt offering, an ox and ram for fellowship offerings, and a grain offering mixed with oil. All Israel gathers before the LORD. Verses 6–7 – Moses’ Instructions and Promise of the LORD’s Glory Moses assures them, “The glory of the LORD will appear to you” (v. 6). Aaron must first make atonement for himself, then for the people, and afterward present their offerings. Verses 8–11 – Sin Offering for Aaron Aaron slaughters the bull, dips his finger in the blood, and applies it to the altar horns. The fat parts are burned on the altar; the hide and flesh are burned outside the camp. Verses 12–14 – Burnt Offering for Aaron The ram is slain and its blood splashed against the altar. Aaron cuts the ram into pieces, washing the entrails and legs, and burns everything on the altar as a pleasing aroma. Verses 15–17 – Offerings for the People Aaron offers the people’s goat exactly as he did the personal sin offering. He presents the calf and lamb for a burnt offering, and offers the grain mixed with oil on the altar. Verses 18–21 – Fellowship Offering and Grain Offering The ox and ram for peace offerings are slain. Aaron places the fat portions on the breasts, burns the fat on the altar, and waves the breasts and right thighs as a wave offering. Verses 22–24 – Blessing, Fire from the LORD, and Worship Aaron lifts his hands and blesses Israel. Fire comes out from the LORD’s presence and consumes the sacrifice. The people shout for joy and fall facedown. This chapter underscores the critical role of obedience to God's command and the practice of sacrifice in the ancient Israelite community. As Aaron follows the detailed instructions given by Moses for the offerings, the glory of the Lord is revealed, signifying divine acceptance of the offerings and bringing joy to the congregation. Historical Setting and Timing • “On the eighth day” links this event to the seven days of ordination in Leviticus 8, completing Israel’s first full week of priestly preparation (Exodus 29:35–37). • The Tabernacle has been set up less than a year after the exodus (Exodus 40:17). Israel is camped at Sinai, receiving final instructions before marching toward the Promised Land. Priestly Consecration Culminates • Aaron’s first official acts show that even the high priest needs atonement for sin before ministering for others (Hebrews 5:3). • His sons assist, prefiguring a priesthood meant to serve continually (Numbers 18:7). • By blessing the people (v. 22), Aaron steps into his role as mediator (Numbers 6:24-26). Pattern of Offerings Explained 1. Sin offering—removes guilt (vv. 8–11). 2. Burnt offering—expresses total surrender (vv. 12–14). 3. Grain offering—thanks for daily provision (v. 17). 4. Fellowship (peace) offering—celebrates restored friendship with God (vv. 18–21). The order underscores how forgiveness must precede dedication, gratitude, and fellowship—a pattern echoed in Romans 5:1-2. The Role of Blood • Blood applied to the altar horns shows life laid down in place of the sinner’s (Leviticus 17:11). • Hebrews 9:22 reminds that “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” • The hide and flesh burned outside the camp (v. 11) foreshadow Jesus “suffering outside the city gate” (Hebrews 13:11-12). Appearance of the LORD’s Glory • Promise (v. 6), fulfillment (v. 23): God reveals His nearness, confirming the sacrificial system He just outlined. • Similar manifestations occurred at the Red Sea (Exodus 14:24) and later in Solomon’s temple (2 Chronicles 7:1-3). • Glory coupled with fire validates Aaron’s priesthood and affirms that Israel’s worship now has divine approval. Fire from Heaven in Biblical History • Leviticus 9:24—first Tabernacle ignition. • 1 Kings 18:38—Elijah on Carmel. • 2 Chronicles 7:1—temple dedication. • Luke 9:54-55—disciples want fire; Jesus withholds. These events highlight God’s power to accept or withhold sacrifice. In each accepted case, the people respond with awe and worship. Archaeological Insights into Tabernacle Worship • Late Bronze Age tent-style shrines discovered at Timna give a visual parallel to the portable sanctuary. • Cultic basins and altars unearthed in the Sinai and Negev match dimensions and materials described in Exodus 25-27. • Bovine and ovine bones found in layers dated to Israelite settlement periods show clean animals were regularly sacrificed, supporting the biblical record. Links to Jesus’ Perfect Sacrifice • Aaron’s need to sacrifice for himself contrasts with Christ, “holy, innocent, undefiled” (Hebrews 7:26-27). • The “once for all” fire-consumed offering points to the cross where sin was finally judged (John 19:30). • Jesus becomes the meeting point of God’s glory and human need, echoing Leviticus 9’s moment when heaven and earth connect. Practical Takeaways for Today • Holiness matters: like Aaron, believers approach God only through provided atonement (Hebrews 10:19-22). • Order in worship: confession, surrender, gratitude, and communion remain a healthy spiritual rhythm. • Expectation of God’s presence: the same LORD delights to reveal Himself when His people gather with clean hearts (Matthew 18:20). Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 4:14-16 This passage speaks of Jesus as our great High Priest, who sympathizes with our weaknesses and provides us access to God's throne of grace. 1 Peter 2:9 This verse reminds us that we are a royal priesthood, called to declare the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. Romans 12:1 Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of spiritual worship. Teaching Points The Role of the Priesthood Leviticus 9 highlights the importance of the priesthood in mediating between God and His people. Aaron and his sons are consecrated to serve as priests, emphasizing the need for a holy and set-apart leadership. The Significance of Sacrifices The chapter details various offerings, including sin offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings. Each sacrifice symbolizes different aspects of atonement, dedication, and fellowship with God. God's Holiness and Glory In verses 23-24, the glory of the LORD appears to all the people, and fire consumes the offerings on the altar. This dramatic event underscores God's holiness and His acceptance of the sacrifices. Obedience to God's Commands The meticulous adherence to God's instructions by Moses, Aaron, and the priests demonstrates the importance of obedience in worship and service to God. Practical Applications Pursue Holiness Just as the priests were called to be holy, we too are called to live lives set apart for God. Reflect on areas in your life where you can pursue greater holiness. Offer Spiritual Sacrifices While we no longer offer animal sacrifices, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, such as praise, thanksgiving, and acts of service (Hebrews 13:15-16). Seek God's Presence Desire and seek the presence of God in your daily life. Spend time in prayer and worship, inviting His glory to fill your heart and home. Obey God's Word Commit to obeying God's Word in every aspect of your life, recognizing that obedience is a form of worship. People 1. Moses Moses is the leader of the Israelites and the brother of Aaron. In Leviticus 9, he plays a crucial role in instructing Aaron and his sons on the offerings they must present to the Lord. Moses acts as a mediator between God and the people, ensuring that the rituals are performed correctly. 2. Aaron Aaron is the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. In this chapter, Aaron is consecrated and begins his priestly duties by offering sacrifices for himself and the people. His role is central as he performs the rituals that allow the presence of the Lord to appear to the Israelites. 3. Aaron's Sons Aaron's sons, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar, are also consecrated as priests. They assist Aaron in the sacrificial offerings and are part of the priestly lineage. Their involvement signifies the establishment of the priesthood in Israel. 4. The Israelites The congregation of Israel is present as witnesses to the consecration of Aaron and his sons. They are the recipients of the atonement made through the sacrifices, and their role is to observe and follow the instructions given by Moses and Aaron. In the original Hebrew text, the names and roles of these individuals are significant. For example, "Aaron" (אַהֲרֹן, Aharon) is derived from a Hebrew root that may mean "exalted" or "mountain of strength," reflecting his elevated position as high priest. Moses (מֹשֶׁה, Moshe) is a central figure in the Torah, often associated with leadership and prophecy. The term "sons" (בָּנִים, banim) emphasizes the familial and hereditary aspect of the priesthood. Places 1. The Tent of Meeting This is the central location where the events of Leviticus 9 take place. The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, is the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites as they journey through the wilderness. It is where Moses, Aaron, and the priests perform their duties and where God meets with His people. The Hebrew term for the Tent of Meeting is "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (Ohel Mo'ed), which signifies a place of divine encounter and assembly. 2. The Altar The altar is a key feature within the courtyard of the Tabernacle, where sacrifices are offered to God. In Leviticus 9, Aaron offers various sacrifices on the altar as part of the consecration ceremony. The Hebrew word for altar is "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), which comes from a root meaning "to slaughter" or "to sacrifice," highlighting its primary function in worship and atonement rituals. Events 1. Moses Summons Aaron and His Sons Moses calls Aaron, his sons, and the elders of Israel to present offerings before the LORD. This event marks the beginning of the priestly ministry of Aaron and his sons. The Hebrew root for "summons" (קָרָא, qara) implies a calling or invitation to a significant task. 2. Instructions for Offerings Moses instructs Aaron to take a bull calf for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering, both without blemish, and present them before the LORD. The Hebrew word for "sin offering" (חַטָּאת, chatat) indicates a sacrifice for atonement. 3. Offerings for the People Moses tells the Israelites to bring a male goat for a sin offering, a calf and a lamb for a burnt offering, an ox and a ram for a peace offering, and a grain offering mixed with oil. These offerings are to be presented before the LORD, symbolizing the people's dedication and atonement. 4. The LORD Appears to the People Moses promises that the LORD will appear to the people that day, signifying divine approval and presence. The Hebrew root for "appear" (רָאָה, ra'ah) conveys the idea of being seen or revealed. 5. Aaron Offers the Sin Offering Aaron slaughters the bull calf for his own sin offering and presents it as Moses instructed. This act signifies Aaron's purification before ministering on behalf of the people. 6. Aaron Offers the Burnt Offering Aaron presents the ram for the burnt offering, following the prescribed ritual. The burnt offering (עֹלָה, olah) symbolizes complete dedication to God. 7. Offerings for the People Aaron presents the people's offerings, including the goat for the sin offering, the burnt offering, and the peace offerings. This act represents the people's atonement and fellowship with God. 8. Aaron Lifts His Hands and Blesses the People After offering the sacrifices, Aaron lifts his hands toward the people and blesses them. This blessing signifies the completion of the sacrificial rites and the impartation of God's favor. 9. The Glory of the LORD Appears The glory of the LORD appears to all the people, confirming His presence and acceptance of the offerings. The Hebrew word for "glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) denotes weightiness or honor. 10. Fire from the LORD Consumes the Offerings Fire comes out from the presence of the LORD and consumes the burnt offering and the fat portions on the altar. This divine fire signifies God's acceptance of the sacrifices and His holiness. 11. The People Shout and Fall Facedown Witnessing the fire, the people shout for joy and fall facedown in worship, acknowledging God's presence and power. This response reflects reverence and awe before the LORD. Lessons from Leviticus 9 1. The Importance of Obedience In Leviticus 9, we see the Israelites following God's instructions to the letter. This chapter reminds us that obedience to God is crucial. As it says in 1 Samuel 15:22, "To obey is better than sacrifice." When we align our actions with God's commands, we open ourselves to His blessings and guidance. 2. The Role of the Priesthood Aaron and his sons serve as priests, mediating between God and the people. This foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us. Hebrews 4:14 reminds us, "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess." 3. The Power of Sacrifice The sacrifices in Leviticus 9 symbolize atonement and reconciliation with God. They point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who "gave Himself for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" (Ephesians 5:2). This chapter encourages us to live sacrificially, offering our lives as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1). 4. The Glory of God Revealed When Aaron and Moses bless the people, the glory of the Lord appears. This moment is a powerful reminder that God's presence is transformative. As 2 Corinthians 3:18 states, "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory." 5. The Significance of Holiness Leviticus 9 emphasizes the need for holiness in approaching God. We are called to be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:16). This chapter challenges us to examine our lives and strive for purity, knowing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). 6. The Joy of Worship The Israelites experience joy as they witness God's acceptance of their offerings. Worship is not just a duty but a delight. Psalm 100:2 encourages us to "Serve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs." Let our worship be filled with joy and gratitude. 7. The Necessity of Preparation Before the offerings, Aaron and his sons prepare themselves. This teaches us the importance of preparing our hearts before approaching God. As James 4:8 advises, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." 8. The Unity of the Community The entire community of Israel gathers to witness the offerings. This unity is a powerful testament to the strength found in communal worship and fellowship. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us, "Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another." 9. The Assurance of God's Presence God's presence is evident when fire consumes the offerings. This assurance of His presence is a comfort to us today. As Jesus promised in Matthew 28:20, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." 10. The Call to Faithfulness Leviticus 9 concludes with the people shouting for joy and falling facedown. This response is a call to faithfulness, acknowledging God's sovereignty and grace. As 1 Corinthians 4:2 states, "Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful." Let us strive to be faithful stewards of the life and salvation we have received. Topics 1. The Inauguration of the Priesthood (Leviticus 9:1-2) On the eighth day, Moses called Aaron and his sons, along with the elders of Israel, to begin the priestly service. This marks the official start of the priesthood, emphasizing the importance of consecration and obedience to God's commands. The Hebrew term for "eighth" (שְׁמִינִי, shemini) signifies a new beginning or a new order. 2. Offerings for Aaron and the People (Leviticus 9:3-4) Moses instructs Aaron to present specific offerings: a sin offering and a burnt offering for himself, and additional offerings for the people. These offerings are meant to atone for sins and symbolize dedication to God. The Hebrew word for "offering" (קָרְבָּן, korban) implies drawing near to God. 3. The Presence of the LORD (Leviticus 9:5-6) The congregation gathers before the LORD as Moses declares that the glory of the LORD will appear to them. This highlights the significance of divine presence and approval in worship. The Hebrew term for "glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) denotes weightiness or honor. 4. Aaron’s Obedience and Sacrificial Duties (Leviticus 9:7-14) Aaron follows Moses' instructions meticulously, offering the sacrifices as commanded. This section underscores the importance of obedience in priestly duties and the role of the high priest as a mediator between God and the people. 5. Offerings for the People (Leviticus 9:15-21) Aaron presents the offerings for the people, including the sin offering, burnt offering, and peace offerings. These acts are essential for communal atonement and fellowship with God. The Hebrew root for "peace offering" (שֶׁלֶם, shelem) is related to "shalom," meaning peace or completeness. 6. The LORD’s Acceptance and Manifestation (Leviticus 9:22-24) After completing the offerings, Aaron blesses the people, and the glory of the LORD appears. Fire comes from the LORD and consumes the offerings on the altar, signifying divine acceptance. The people respond with joy and reverence, falling facedown. The Hebrew word for "fire" (אֵשׁ, esh) symbolizes God's presence and power. Themes 1. Consecration of the Priests Leviticus 9 describes the beginning of the priestly ministry of Aaron and his sons. The chapter emphasizes the importance of consecration and holiness in serving God. The Hebrew root for "consecrate" (קָדַשׁ, qadash) implies being set apart for a sacred purpose. This theme underscores the need for purity and dedication in spiritual leadership. 2. Divine Instructions for Offerings The chapter outlines specific offerings that Aaron and his sons are to present, including sin offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings. These offerings symbolize atonement, dedication, and fellowship with God. The Hebrew term for "offering" (קָרְבָּן, qorban) signifies something brought near to God, highlighting the relational aspect of worship. 3. Obedience to God's Commands Aaron and his sons meticulously follow the instructions given by Moses, as commanded by the LORD. This theme of obedience is crucial, as it reflects the importance of adhering to God's directives in worship and service. The Hebrew word for "command" (מִצְוָה, mitzvah) indicates a divine ordinance that requires faithful compliance. 4. Manifestation of God's Glory After the offerings are made, the glory of the LORD appears to all the people (Leviticus 9:23-24). This manifestation signifies God's approval and presence among His people. The Hebrew word for "glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) conveys a sense of weightiness and honor, representing God's majestic presence. 5. The Role of Mediation Aaron acts as a mediator between God and the Israelites, offering sacrifices on their behalf. This theme foreshadows the ultimate mediation of Christ, as described in the New Testament. The priestly role highlights the necessity of an intermediary in approaching a holy God. 6. The Response of Worship The people's response to the manifestation of God's glory is one of worship and reverence, as they shout and fall facedown (Leviticus 9:24). This reaction underscores the appropriate human response to divine revelation and presence, characterized by awe and submission. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Jesus, Our High Priest Thank God for sending Jesus, who perfectly fulfills the role of the High Priest and offers us direct access to the Father. Desire for Holiness Pray for a deeper desire to live a holy life, set apart for God's purposes. Obedience to God's Commands Ask for strength and wisdom to obey God's Word in every area of your life. Manifestation of God's Presence Pray for a tangible experience of God's presence in your life, church, and community. As we reflect on Leviticus 9, may we be inspired to live lives that honor God, seeking His presence and glory in all that we do. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Leviticus 9:24, how do we reconcile the claim that fire miraculously consumed the offering with scientific explanations or natural phenomena? 2. In Leviticus 9:7–8, how can the idea that priests make atonement for the people be squared with Hebrews 10:4, which says animal sacrifices can’t truly remove sin? 3. In Leviticus 9:1–4, why would an omniscient God require detailed and repeated animal sacrifices, which clash with modern ethical concerns about animal cruelty? 4. In Leviticus 9:22–23, is there any historical or archaeological evidence outside the Bible to support the account of Moses and Aaron’s miraculous blessing and the visible glory of God? 5. In Leviticus 9:6, the text promises that God’s glory will appear to the people. How can this be historically verified or tested in light of skepticism regarding supernatural events? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What significance does the eighth day hold in the context of this chapter? How might this relate to other instances of the number "eight" in the Bible? 2. How do the different types of offerings symbolize different aspects of the relationship between God and His people? 3. How is obedience portrayed in this chapter and why is it important? 4. Why did Aaron first need to make an offering for himself before making one for the people? 5. How do the detailed ritual procedures reflect the character of God? 6. What do you think the 'glory of the LORD' might look like, and why did it appear at this moment? 7. How does the congregation's reaction to the manifestation of God's glory illustrate their relationship with God? 8. How does the sacrificial system in ancient Israel relate to our understanding of Jesus' sacrifice in the New Testament? 9. Why do you think the whole congregation needed to be present for the sacrifices? 10. What does this passage teach us about the community's role in individual atonement and worship? 11. How can the concept of atonement presented in this chapter apply to modern-day living? 12. How can we experience the 'glory of the LORD' in our lives today? 13. What contemporary 'offerings' can we make to God as a sign of obedience and worship? 14. What do Aaron's actions teach us about leadership and responsibility? 15. How can we, as modern believers, "bless" others in our community? 16. In what ways might we be called to make sacrifices in our personal lives? 17. In our own journey towards obedience, what 'burnt offerings' or relinquishments might be required? 18. How does this passage deepen your understanding of the connection between obedience and divine revelation? 19. How can we bring the principles of worship from this passage into our daily lives? 20. How might we interpret the people's joy and reverence in the face of God's glory in the context of our personal spiritual experiences? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions