Leviticus 1:3

If one's offering is a burnt offering from the herd, he is to present an unblemished male. He must bring it to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting for its acceptance before the LORD.

Study Bible

If his offering
The Hebrew word for "offering" is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near or presented. This term underscores the act of drawing near to God, a central theme in Levitical worship. The offering is not merely a ritualistic act but a profound expression of devotion and desire for communion with the Divine.

is a burnt offering
The Hebrew term "עֹלָה" (olah) means "that which goes up," referring to the smoke ascending to God. The burnt offering is wholly consumed by fire, symbolizing total surrender and dedication to God. It represents the worshiper's complete submission and the desire for purification and atonement.

from the herd
This phrase indicates that the offering should come from domesticated animals, specifically cattle. The choice of a herd animal reflects the value and significance of the sacrifice, as these animals were vital to the livelihood of the Israelites. It emphasizes the costliness and sincerity of the worshiper's devotion.

he is to offer an unblemished male
The requirement for an "unblemished" (תָּמִים, tamim) male animal signifies perfection and purity. In the sacrificial system, only the best was deemed worthy for God, prefiguring the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who was without blemish or sin. This requirement points to the holiness and perfection that God demands.

He must present it
The act of presenting the offering is a deliberate and conscious act of worship. It involves the worshiper's active participation and personal involvement in the sacrificial process, highlighting the relational aspect of worship and the intentionality behind approaching God.

at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting" (אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד, ohel moed) was the designated place where God met with His people. Presenting the offering at the entrance signifies the threshold of divine-human interaction, where the sacred and the secular converge. It underscores the accessibility of God to His people through prescribed means.

that he may be accepted
The Hebrew word "רָצוֹן" (ratzon) conveys the idea of favor or acceptance. The purpose of the offering is to find favor in the eyes of the LORD, indicating that the sacrificial act is not merely about ritual compliance but about seeking a favorable relationship with God.

by the LORD
The use of "LORD" (יהוה, Yahweh) emphasizes the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. It is a reminder of God's personal name, signifying His eternal presence and faithfulness. The acceptance of the offering by Yahweh assures the worshiper of divine grace and favor, reinforcing the covenantal bond.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Offerer
The individual bringing the sacrifice, representing the people of Israel who seek to maintain a right relationship with God through offerings.

2. Burnt Offering
A type of sacrifice in which the entire animal is consumed by fire, symbolizing complete dedication and atonement for sin.

3. Unblemished Male
The requirement for the offering to be without defect, symbolizing purity and perfection, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

4. Tent of Meeting
The sacred place where God met with Moses and the Israelites, representing God's presence among His people.

5. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who establishes the terms of worship and acceptance.

Teaching Points

The Call for Purity
Just as the offering had to be unblemished, believers are called to pursue holiness and purity in their lives, reflecting the character of Christ.

Total Dedication
The burnt offering symbolizes complete surrender to God. Christians are encouraged to live lives fully dedicated to God's service and glory.

Approaching God
The requirement to present the offering at the Tent of Meeting highlights the importance of approaching God on His terms, through the means He has provided, ultimately through Jesus Christ.

Acceptance by God
The offering was a means of being accepted by the LORD. In Christ, believers are accepted and can approach God with confidence.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the requirement of an "unblemished male" offering teach us about the nature of sacrifices acceptable to God?

2. How does the concept of a burnt offering relate to the New Testament teaching of living as a "living sacrifice" in Romans 12:1?

3. In what ways does the Tent of Meeting serve as a precursor to the New Testament understanding of God's presence with His people?

4. How can we apply the principle of total dedication, as symbolized by the burnt offering, in our daily lives?

5. How does understanding the sacrificial system in Leviticus enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice as described in Hebrews 10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, where God provides a ram as a substitute, prefiguring the sacrificial system and ultimately Christ's sacrifice.

Hebrews 10
Discusses how the sacrifices of the Old Testament were a shadow of the good things to come, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the perfect and final sacrifice.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is a spiritual act of worship, echoing the dedication symbolized by the burnt offering.