Leviticus 1:2

"Speak to the Israelites and tell them: When any of you brings an offering to the LORD, you may bring as your offering an animal from the herd or the flock.

Study Bible

Speak to the Israelites
This phrase establishes the audience for the instructions that follow. The Israelites, descendants of Jacob, are God's chosen people, set apart to be a holy nation. The Hebrew word for "speak" is "דַּבֵּר" (daber), which implies a direct and authoritative communication. This is not merely a suggestion but a divine command. Historically, the Israelites were a nomadic people at this time, having recently been delivered from slavery in Egypt. This context underscores the importance of establishing a covenantal relationship with God through obedience and worship.

and tell them
The phrase "tell them" reinforces the role of Moses as a mediator between God and His people. The Hebrew word "אָמַר" (amar) is used here, which often conveys the idea of declaring or proclaiming. This is a continuation of the divine communication process, emphasizing the importance of clarity and precision in conveying God's instructions. Moses' role as a prophet and leader is crucial, as he is responsible for ensuring that the Israelites understand and adhere to God's laws.

When any of you
This phrase introduces the inclusivity of the instructions that follow. The Hebrew word "אָדָם" (adam) is used here, which can mean "man" or "person," indicating that the instructions are applicable to every individual within the community. This universality highlights the personal responsibility each Israelite has in maintaining their relationship with God. It also reflects the communal aspect of worship, where each person's actions contribute to the spiritual health of the entire nation.

brings an offering
The concept of bringing an offering is central to the sacrificial system established in Leviticus. The Hebrew word "קָרְבָּן" (korban) is used, which means "that which is brought near." This signifies the purpose of offerings: to draw near to God. Offerings were a tangible expression of worship, repentance, and thanksgiving. Archaeological evidence from ancient Near Eastern cultures shows that sacrificial systems were common, but the Israelite system was unique in its focus on holiness and covenant relationship with Yahweh.

to the LORD
This phrase identifies the recipient of the offering, the LORD, or "יְהוָה" (YHWH) in Hebrew. This is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His special relationship with Israel. The use of this name underscores the personal and covenantal aspects of the offerings. Unlike pagan sacrifices, which were often made to appease capricious deities, offerings to the LORD were acts of worship and obedience to a holy and loving God.

you are to bring your offering of livestock
The specification of livestock as the offering highlights the agricultural context of the Israelites. Livestock, such as cattle, sheep, and goats, were valuable assets, representing wealth and sustenance. The Hebrew word "בְּהֵמָה" (behemah) is used for livestock, indicating domesticated animals. This requirement underscores the principle of sacrifice, where the offerer gives something of value to God. It also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.

from the herd or the flock
This phrase specifies the types of animals acceptable for offerings, either from the herd (cattle) or the flock (sheep or goats). The Hebrew words "בָּקָר" (baqar) for herd and "צֹאן" (tso'n) for flock are used. This distinction ensures that the offerings are of a certain quality and type, suitable for the various sacrifices outlined in Leviticus. The careful regulation of offerings reflects God's desire for order and holiness in worship. It also points to the need for intentionality and reverence in approaching God, a principle that remains relevant for believers today.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are receiving the laws and instructions from God through Moses.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, who is giving these instructions to His people, emphasizing His holiness and the need for proper worship.

3. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who is the mediator between God and the people, conveying God's laws and instructions.

4. Offerings
Sacrificial gifts brought to God, which in this context are specifically from livestock, symbolizing dedication and atonement.

5. The Tabernacle
The place where offerings are brought, representing God's dwelling among His people and the center of Israelite worship.

Teaching Points

Understanding Sacrifice
The sacrificial system in Leviticus points to the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. It foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Approaching God with Reverence
The instructions for offerings remind us of the holiness of God and the importance of approaching Him with respect and obedience.

Heart of Worship
While the Israelites were required to bring physical offerings, God desires a heart of worship and obedience from His people today.

Community and Worship
The communal aspect of bringing offerings highlights the importance of corporate worship and accountability within the body of believers.

Living Sacrifices
As New Testament believers, we are called to present ourselves as living sacrifices, dedicating our lives to God's service and glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the requirement of bringing offerings from the herd or flock teach us about the cost and value of worship?

2. How does the sacrificial system in Leviticus point forward to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and how does this understanding affect our view of salvation?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of offering our best to God in our daily lives and spiritual practices?

4. How does the concept of communal worship in the Old Testament offerings relate to the New Testament church's practice of gathering together?

5. Reflect on Romans 12:1. What does it mean for you personally to be a "living sacrifice," and how can you live this out in your current context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4
The account of Cain and Abel's offerings to God, highlighting the importance of the heart and attitude behind the offering.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the New Covenant.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system as a form of worship.

Psalm 51
David's prayer of repentance, emphasizing that God desires a contrite heart over ritual sacrifices.