◄ Leviticus 6 ►
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Sins Requiring a Guilt Offering (Leviticus 5:14–19; Leviticus 7:1–10) 1And the LORD said to Moses, 2“If someone sins and acts unfaithfully against the LORD by deceiving his neighbor in regard to a deposit or security entrusted to him or stolen, or if he extorts his neighbor 3or finds lost property and lies about it and swears falsely, or if he commits any such sin that a man might commit— 4once he has sinned and becomes guilty, he must return what he has stolen or taken by extortion, or the deposit entrusted to him, or the lost property he found, 5or anything else about which he has sworn falsely. He must make restitution in full, add a fifth of the value, and pay it to the owner on the day he acknowledges his guilt. 6Then he must bring to the priest his guilt offering to the LORD: an unblemished ram of proper value from the flock. 7In this way the priest will make atonement for him before the LORD, and he will be forgiven for anything he may have done to incur guilt.” The Burnt Offering (Leviticus 1:1–17) 8Then the LORD said to Moses, 9“Command Aaron and his sons that this is the law of the burnt offering: The burnt offering is to remain on the hearth of the altar all night, until morning, and the fire must be kept burning on the altar. 10And the priest shall put on his linen robe and linen undergarments, and he shall remove from the altar the ashes of the burnt offering that the fire has consumed and place them beside it. 11Then he must take off his garments, put on other clothes, and carry the ashes outside the camp to a ceremonially clean place. 12The fire on the altar shall be kept burning; it must not be extinguished. Every morning the priest is to add wood to the fire, arrange the burnt offering on it, and burn the fat portions of the peace offerings on it. 13The fire shall be kept burning on the altar continually; it must not be extinguished. The Grain Offering (Leviticus 2:1–16) 14Now this is the law of the grain offering: Aaron’s sons shall present it before the LORD in front of the altar. 15The priest is to remove a handful of fine flour and olive oil, together with all the frankincense from the grain offering, and burn the memorial portion on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD. 16Aaron and his sons are to eat the remainder. It must be eaten without leaven in a holy place; they are to eat it in the courtyard of the Tent of Meeting. 17It must not be baked with leaven; I have assigned it as their portion of My food offerings. It is most holy, like the sin offering and the guilt offering. 18Any male among the sons of Aaron may eat it. This is a permanent portion from the food offerings to the LORD for the generations to come. Anything that touches them will become holy.” 19Then the LORD said to Moses, 20“This is the offering that Aaron and his sons must present to the LORD on the day he is anointed: a tenth of an ephah of fine floura as a regular grain offering, half of it in the morning and half in the evening. 21It shall be prepared with oil on a griddle;b you are to bring it well-kneaded and present it as a grain offering brokenc in pieces, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. 22The priest, who is one of Aaron’s sons and will be anointed to take his place, is to prepare it. As a permanent portion for the LORD, it must be burned completely. 23Every grain offering for a priest shall be burned completely; it is not to be eaten.” The Sin Offering (Leviticus 4:1–35; Leviticus 5:1–13) 24And the LORD said to Moses, 25“Tell Aaron and his sons that this is the law of the sin offering: In the place where the burnt offering is slaughtered, the sin offering shall be slaughtered before the LORD; it is most holy. 26The priest who offers it shall eat it; it must be eaten in a holy place, in the courtyard of the Tent of Meeting. 27Anything that touches its flesh will become holy, and if any of the blood is spattered on a garment, you must wash it in a holy place. 28The clay pot in which the sin offering is boiled must be broken; if it is boiled in a bronze pot, the pot must be scoured and rinsed with water. 29Any male among the priests may eat it; it is most holy. 30But no sin offering may be eaten if its blood has been brought into the Tent of Meeting to make atonement in the Holy Place; it must be burned. Footnotes: 20 a A tenth of an ephah is approximately 2 dry quarts or 2.2 liters (probably about 2.6 pounds or 1.2 kilograms of flour). 21 b That is, a shallow pan for baking or frying 21 c Or baked 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 6 Summary Sins Requiring a Guilt Offering Verses 1–7 – Restitution and the Guilt Offering Israelites who defraud a neighbor, find lost property and lie about it, or swear falsely must confess, return the exact amount plus one-fifth, and bring a ram “without defect, of proper value” (v. 6) to the priest. The priest makes atonement, and the offender is forgiven. Verses 8–13 – The Ever-Burning Fire The LORD commands that the burnt offering remain on the altar all night. Each morning the priest removes the ashes, then changes clothes before carrying them outside the camp. “Fire shall be kept burning on the altar continually; it must not go out” (v. 13). Verses 14–18 – Priestly Grain Offering Portions The grain offering belongs to Aaron’s sons. A handful is burned as a pleasing aroma; the rest is eaten in the courtyard, unleavened, “for it is most holy” (v. 17). Anything that touches it shares its holiness. Verses 19–23 – Daily Grain Offering of the High Priest On the day of anointing—and every day afterward—the high priest offers two quarts of fine flour mixed with oil, half in the morning and half at twilight. It is entirely burned; none is eaten. Verses 24–30 – Sin Offering Regulations The sin offering is slaughtered “before the LORD in the place where the burnt offering is slain” (v. 25). The meat is eaten by the officiating priest in a holy place. Any blood that splashes on a garment must be washed there; an earthen pot used to boil it is broken, or a bronze pot is scoured and rinsed. If the blood is brought into the tent of meeting for atonement, the offering is not eaten but burned. In this instructive chapter, we explore various laws relating to sin, deception, theft, and the appropriate restitution. We are given insights into the process and importance of guilt offerings, as well as the laws governing burnt, grain, and sin offerings. It provides a detailed look into the roles and responsibilities of Aaron and his sons, the priests, in these processes. Historical Setting Leviticus was given at Sinai after the tabernacle was erected (Exodus 40:17). Israel camped in the wilderness, yet the LORD’s presence filled the new sanctuary. Leviticus 6 continues instructions begun in chapters 1–5, ensuring that worshipers approach God with clean hearts and tangible acts of obedience. Legal Principles of Restitution (vv. 1–7) • Wronging a neighbor is also sin “against the LORD” (v. 2). Horizontal offenses carry vertical consequences. • Full repayment plus 20 percent anticipates Numbers 5:7 and finds echoes in Luke 19:8, where Zacchaeus voluntarily restores fourfold. • Confession precedes sacrifice. Psalm 32:5 captures the same rhythm—“I acknowledged my sin to You … and You forgave.” • The required ram parallels Isaiah 53:5, where Messianic language pictures an innocent substitute. The Ever-Burning Fire (vv. 8–13) • Continual fire symbolized God’s constant acceptance of sacrifice and Israel’s unbroken devotion. Compare 2 Chronicles 7:1–3, where fire falls from heaven, and Romans 12:1, which urges believers to be “living sacrifices.” • Removing ashes shows that past sacrifices are not neglected. Regular housecleaning of the altar foreshadows the believer’s ongoing repentance (1 John 1:9). • Priestly garments matter. Linen (Exodus 28:39–43) prevented sweaty effort, emphasizing service energized by God, not human striving. Priestly Portions and Holiness Codes (vv. 14–18) • The priests, who own no tribal land (Numbers 18:20), live from the altar. First Corinthians 9:13–14 uses this pattern to affirm support for gospel workers. • Unleavened bread mirrors the haste of the exodus (Exodus 12:39) and purity—leaven often depicts hidden corruption (Matthew 16:6). • Anything touching the offering becomes holy, teaching the contagious nature of sanctity, but also the danger of mixing sacred and common (2 Samuel 6:6–7). Daily Duties of the High Priest (vv. 19–23) • The high priest’s personal offering keeps him mindful of his own need. Hebrews 5:3 reminds readers that the Aaronic priest “is obligated to offer sacrifices for his own sins.” • Offered twice daily, the grain gift bookmarks the day with reliance on God—morning and twilight worship (Psalm 141:2). • The whole offering is burned. No one shares the priest’s atonement; it is entirely for God. Sin Offering Regulations and Tabernacle Space (vv. 24–30) • Holiness has degrees. The courtyard is holy; the tent’s inner space is holier still. When sin-offering blood enters the tent, the flesh must be burned outside, prefiguring Jesus who “suffered outside the gate” (Hebrews 13:11–13). • Breakable clay pots absorb impurity and are discarded; bronze can be purified by fire. Believers are “earthen vessels” (2 Corinthians 4:7) upheld only by the treasure within. • The shared meal for most sin offerings underlines restored fellowship, echoing Jesus’ table fellowship with sinners (Luke 15:2). Archaeological Insights • Altars uncovered at Tel Arad and Beersheba match the dimensions and layered construction described in Exodus 27:1–2, lending context to Leviticus 6’s fire instructions. • Ostraca (pottery shards) from Lachish mention temple rations of grain and oil for priests, paralleling the provisions in vv. 14–18. • Ash pits outside ancient temples show the practical outworking of v. 11’s ash removal. Foreshadowings of Christ • Restitution: Jesus pays the debt humanity cannot (Colossians 2:14). • Ever-burning fire: His sacrifice is once for all, yet its effect is continual (Hebrews 10:14). • High-priestly grain offering: Christ our High Priest offers Himself daily as intercessor (Hebrews 7:25). • Sin offering blood carried inside: Jesus enters the heavenly sanctuary with His own blood (Hebrews 9:12). • Ashes taken outside: Calvary lies outside Jerusalem’s walls. Timeless Principles • Confession plus restitution makes reconciliation tangible. • Daily rhythms of worship steady the heart. • Holiness affects every sphere, even clothing and cookware. • God provides for His servants through His own offerings. • Forgiveness is real, but sin always costs something—and Someone. Connections to Additional Scriptures Restitution and Reconciliation Matthew 5:23-24 emphasizes the importance of reconciling with others before offering gifts to God, echoing the principles found in Leviticus 6. Holiness 1 Peter 1:15-16 calls believers to be holy in all conduct, reflecting the call to holiness in Leviticus. Atonement through Christ Hebrews 10:10-14 explains how Jesus' sacrifice fulfills the need for atonement, providing a once-for-all offering for sin. Teaching Points Understanding Guilt Offerings Leviticus 6:1-7 outlines the procedures for guilt offerings, emphasizing the need for restitution. If someone sins and acts unfaithfully against the LORD by deceiving his neighbor... he must return what he has stolen (Leviticus 6:2, 4). This underscores the importance of making things right with others as part of our repentance. The Role of the Priest Verses 8-13 describe the priest's role in the burnt offering. The priest is to keep the fire burning continually on the altar, symbolizing the perpetual nature of atonement and God's ongoing presence with His people. Holiness and Purity The instructions for handling the offerings (Leviticus 6:14-18) highlight the need for holiness and purity. The priests must eat the offerings in a holy place, signifying the sacredness of their duties and the offerings themselves. The Sin Offering Verses 24-30 detail the sin offering, which is distinct from the guilt offering. It serves as a reminder of the need for purification from sin and the seriousness with which God views sin. Practical Applications Restitution in Our Lives Just as the Israelites were required to make restitution, we too should seek to make amends when we wrong others. This can involve returning what was taken or offering sincere apologies. Maintaining Spiritual Fire Like the priests who kept the altar fire burning, we should strive to maintain our spiritual fervor through regular prayer, Bible study, and fellowship. Pursuing Holiness The emphasis on holiness in Leviticus 6 challenges us to pursue purity in our thoughts, actions, and relationships, recognizing that we are set apart for God's purposes. Acknowledging Sin The sin offering reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our sins before God and seeking His forgiveness through Jesus Christ, our ultimate sacrifice. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The chapter begins with "The LORD said to Moses," indicating that the instructions and laws are divinely given. In Hebrew, "Yahweh" is the personal name of God, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel. 2. Moses As the recipient of God's instructions, Moses serves as the mediator between God and the Israelites. He is responsible for conveying God's laws to the people and ensuring they are followed. 3. The Priest The priests are given specific roles in the offerings, such as making atonement and handling the sacrifices. The Hebrew term "kohen" refers to those who serve in the temple, performing sacred duties. 4. The Anointed Priest This refers to the high priest, who has been consecrated for service. The anointing signifies being set apart for a holy purpose, and this priest has specific responsibilities in the sacrificial system. 5. The Offerer This is the individual bringing the offering, whether it be a sin offering, guilt offering, or any other type of sacrifice. The offerer is responsible for bringing the appropriate sacrifice to atone for specific transgressions. Places 1. The Altar The altar is a central place in the tabernacle where burnt offerings are made. In Leviticus 6:9, it is mentioned as the location where the burnt offering is to remain on the hearth all night until morning. The Hebrew word for altar is "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), which signifies a place of sacrifice. 2. The Tent of Meeting While not explicitly mentioned in Leviticus 6, the Tent of Meeting is the broader context for the instructions given. It is the sacred space where God meets with Moses and the Israelites, and where the priests perform their duties. The Hebrew term is "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (ohel mo'ed). 3. The Holy Place This is the area within the tabernacle where the priests perform their duties, including the maintenance of the lamps and the burning of incense. Although not directly mentioned in Leviticus 6, it is implied as part of the priestly service context. Events 1. Instructions for Guilt Offerings Leviticus 6:1-7 outlines the procedures for guilt offerings when someone sins by deceiving a neighbor, committing robbery, or swearing falsely. The Hebrew term for guilt offering is "אָשָׁם" (asham), which signifies a reparation or compensation for wrongdoing. 2. Restitution and Sacrifice In verses 4-5, the sinner is required to make restitution by returning what was taken or gained through deceit, adding a fifth of its value, and then bringing a guilt offering to the LORD. This emphasizes the importance of making amends and seeking forgiveness. 3. The Role of the Priest Verse 7 highlights the priest's role in making atonement for the sinner before the LORD, using the guilt offering. The Hebrew word "כָּפַר" (kaphar) is used for atonement, meaning to cover or reconcile. 4. The Law of the Burnt Offering Verses 8-13 describe the perpetual fire on the altar for burnt offerings, which must never go out. The Hebrew word for burnt offering is "עוֹלָה" (olah), indicating something that ascends, symbolizing the offering's ascent to God. 5. The Law of the Grain Offering In verses 14-18, the procedures for the grain offering are detailed. The Hebrew term "מִנְחָה" (minchah) refers to a gift or tribute, representing dedication and thanksgiving to God. 6. Consumption by the Priests Verses 16 and 18 specify that the remainder of the grain offering is to be eaten by Aaron and his sons in a holy place, emphasizing the sanctity of the offerings and the priestly role in consuming them. 7. The Anointing of Aaron and His Sons Verses 19-23 describe the special grain offering to be made on the day of Aaron's anointing, highlighting the consecration of the priesthood. The offering is to be wholly burned, signifying complete dedication to God. 8. The Law of the Sin Offering Verses 24-30 provide instructions for the sin offering, emphasizing its holiness. The Hebrew word "חַטָּאת" (chatat) is used for sin offering, denoting purification from sin. The offering's blood is to be applied to the altar, and the flesh is to be eaten by the priests in a holy place, except when the blood is brought into the Tent of Meeting, in which case the offering must be burned. Lessons from Leviticus 6 1. The Importance of Atonement Leviticus 6 reminds us of the significance of atonement in our relationship with God. The chapter outlines the procedures for guilt offerings, emphasizing that sin requires a response. "The priest will make atonement for him before the LORD, and he will be forgiven for anything he may have done to incur guilt" (Leviticus 6:7). This underscores the necessity of seeking forgiveness and the grace that God provides through atonement, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. 2. Restitution as a Path to Reconciliation Restitution is a key theme in Leviticus 6, where God instructs the Israelites to make amends for wrongs committed against others. "He must make restitution in full, add a fifth of the value to it, and give it all to the owner on the day he presents his guilt offering" (Leviticus 6:5). This teaches us the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and restoring relationships, reflecting the heart of reconciliation that is central to Christian living. 3. The Role of the Priesthood The chapter highlights the role of priests in mediating between God and His people. "The priest shall burn it on the altar as a food offering to the LORD. It is a guilt offering" (Leviticus 6:6). This points to the priestly function of intercession, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus, our High Priest, who intercedes for us before the Father. 4. The Sacredness of Offerings Offerings in Leviticus 6 are treated with great reverence, illustrating the sacredness of giving to God. "The fire on the altar must be kept burning; it must not go out" (Leviticus 6:12). This continuous fire symbolizes the perpetual nature of worship and dedication to God, encouraging us to maintain a heart of worship in all we do. 5. The Call to Holiness Leviticus 6 calls us to a life of holiness, as seen in the detailed instructions for offerings. "Every male among the priests may eat it. It is most holy" (Leviticus 6:29). This reflects the call for believers to live set apart, pursuing holiness in our daily lives as a response to God's holiness. 6. The Significance of Obedience Obedience is a recurring theme, as God provides specific instructions for offerings. "The LORD said to Moses" (Leviticus 6:1) introduces each command, reminding us that obedience to God's Word is crucial. Our willingness to follow His commands reflects our love and devotion to Him. 7. The Value of Community Responsibility The chapter emphasizes community responsibility, as offerings were not just personal but communal acts. "The priest who offers it shall eat it; it must be eaten in a holy place" (Leviticus 6:26). This teaches us the importance of supporting one another in faith, fostering a community that upholds God's standards. 8. The Necessity of Repentance Repentance is central to the offerings described in Leviticus 6. The act of bringing a guilt offering signifies a turning away from sin and a turning towards God. This mirrors the Christian call to repentance, a vital step in our walk with Christ. 9. The Assurance of Forgiveness Leviticus 6 assures us of God's willingness to forgive. "And he will be forgiven" (Leviticus 6:7) is a powerful reminder that God is merciful and ready to forgive those who come to Him with a contrite heart. This assurance is a cornerstone of our faith, rooted in the sacrifice of Jesus. 10. The Ever-Present Grace of God Finally, Leviticus 6 reveals the ever-present grace of God. Despite the detailed laws and offerings, God's grace is evident in His provision for atonement and forgiveness. This grace is fully realized in Jesus Christ, who offers us eternal life and reconciliation with God. Let us embrace this grace and live in the light of His love. Topics 1. Guilt Offering for Sinful Acts (Leviticus 6:1-7) This section addresses the procedures for making restitution when someone sins by deceiving a neighbor, committing robbery, or swearing falsely. The Hebrew term for guilt offering, "אָשָׁם" (asham), signifies a reparation offering, emphasizing the need for restitution and atonement. 2. Instructions for the Burnt Offering (Leviticus 6:8-13) The Lord gives Moses instructions for the burnt offering, which must remain on the altar hearth throughout the night. The Hebrew word "עוֹלָה" (olah) means "that which goes up," referring to the smoke ascending to God, symbolizing complete surrender and dedication. 3. Regulations for the Grain Offering (Leviticus 6:14-18) This section outlines the handling of the grain offering, which is a portion of the daily offerings. The Hebrew term "מִנְחָה" (minchah) refers to a gift or tribute, symbolizing the worshiper's dedication and thanksgiving to God. 4. The Priests' Portion of the Grain Offering (Leviticus 6:19-23) Specific instructions are given regarding the portion of the grain offering that belongs to the priests. This highlights the provision for the priests and their role in mediating between God and the people. 5. Instructions for the Sin Offering (Leviticus 6:24-30) The chapter concludes with detailed instructions for the sin offering, emphasizing the sanctity and holiness required in handling the offering. The Hebrew word "חַטָּאת" (chatat) means "sin" or "sin offering," underscoring the need for purification and atonement for unintentional sins. Themes 1. Restitution and Guilt Offerings Leviticus 6:1-7 discusses the requirements for making restitution when someone sins by deceiving a neighbor or committing fraud. The passage emphasizes the need for confession, restitution, and a guilt offering to make atonement. The Hebrew word for guilt offering, "אָשָׁם" (asham), signifies the need for reparation and reconciliation with both God and the wronged party. 2. The Role of the Priests Verses 8-13 outline the duties of the priests in maintaining the burnt offering on the altar. The priests are instructed to keep the fire burning continuously, symbolizing the perpetual nature of worship and dedication to God. The Hebrew term "כֹּהֵן" (kohen) refers to the priestly role as mediators between God and the people. 3. Holiness of Offerings In verses 14-18, the holiness of the grain offering is emphasized. The priests are to eat it in a holy place, signifying the sanctity of the offerings made to God. The Hebrew root "קָדֹשׁ" (qadosh) underscores the concept of being set apart for divine purposes. 4. Sin Offering Regulations Verses 24-30 provide instructions for the sin offering, highlighting the importance of purification and atonement for unintentional sins. The Hebrew word "חַטָּאת" (chatat) is used for sin offering, indicating the need for cleansing from impurity and sin. 5. Atonement and Forgiveness Throughout Leviticus 6, the theme of atonement and forgiveness is prevalent. The offerings and sacrifices are means by which the Israelites could restore their relationship with God. The Hebrew word "כָּפַר" (kaphar), meaning to cover or atone, reflects the covering of sin through sacrificial offerings. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that seeks to make amends and restore relationships where there has been wrongdoing. Ask God to help you maintain a fervent spiritual life, keeping the fire of your faith burning brightly. Seek God's guidance in pursuing holiness and purity in every aspect of your life. Thank God for the ultimate atonement provided through Jesus Christ, and ask for His help in acknowledging and turning from sin. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Leviticus 6:9, 12–13) How could the fire on the altar truly have been kept burning perpetually without ever going out, and is there any historical or archaeological evidence for such a practice? 2. (Leviticus 6:10–11) Why would such specific rituals for removing and disposing of ashes be necessary, and do these instructions align with or contradict known ancient practices? 3. (Leviticus 6:14–18) Is the precise handling of grain offerings reasonable given the nomadic conditions of the Israelites, and is there archaeological support for these meticulous procedures? 4. (Leviticus 6:24–30) How can a “most holy” offering simultaneously require burning outside the camp, and does this present a logical or theological contradiction? 5. (Leviticus 6) In light of New Testament teachings on sacrifice and atonement, do these sacrificial rules conflict with or undermine later Christian doctrines? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does this passage teach us about the nature of sin and the importance of owning up to our actions? 2. How can we apply the principles of restitution in our daily lives? 3. What does the continual fire on the altar symbolize in our spiritual life? 4. How does the process of guilt offering reflect the gravity of our sins? 5. How does the concept of burnt, grain, and sin offerings translate into our modern-day context of worship and devotion? 6. In what ways do the instructions for priests resonate with the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today? 7. How can we approach the concept of holiness in light of this passage? 8. How does the idea of consuming the offerings in a holy place relate to our modern understanding of sacred practices? 9. What does the process of anointing a priest teach us about spiritual succession and leadership? 10. What lessons can we glean from the specific and orderly manner of the offerings as described in the passage? 11. How does the sin offering ritual demonstrate the concept of redemption? 12. How can we relate the concept of "anything that touches them will become holy" to our current spiritual practices? 13. How does this passage highlight the consequences of violating trust and integrity? 14. In what ways does the passage help us understand the significance of rituals in maintaining a relationship with God? 15. How does this passage emphasize the importance of purity and cleanliness in our spiritual lives? 16. What lessons about commitment and dedication can we learn from the duties of Aaron and his sons? 17. How can the principles of these offerings influence our perspective on forgiveness and atonement? 18. In light of this passage, how should we handle situations involving dishonesty and theft in today's world? 19. What can we learn from the distinction between the offerings that could be eaten and those that must be completely burned? 20. In our present day, how can we metaphorically 'keep the fire burning' in our spiritual lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions