Leviticus 1:7

The sons of Aaron the priest shall put a fire on the altar and arrange wood on the fire.

Study Bible

The sons of Aaron the priest
This phrase identifies the specific group responsible for the sacrificial duties: the descendants of Aaron, who was the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. The Hebrew word for "sons" is "בְּנֵי" (benei), which can mean literal sons or descendants. Aaron's lineage was chosen by God to serve as priests, a role that carried significant spiritual responsibility and authority. This highlights the importance of a divinely appointed priesthood in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The priesthood was not just a familial duty but a sacred calling, emphasizing the need for holiness and dedication in service to God.

shall put fire on the altar
The act of putting fire on the altar is central to the sacrificial system. The Hebrew word for "fire" is "אֵשׁ" (esh), which symbolizes God's presence, purity, and judgment. Fire was a divine element, often associated with God's holiness and the consuming nature of His presence. The altar, "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), was the place where sacrifices were offered, representing a meeting point between God and man. The fire on the altar was to be kept burning continually, as instructed in Leviticus 6:13, symbolizing the perpetual worship and devotion required of God's people. This ongoing fire signifies the constant need for atonement and the unending nature of God's covenant with Israel.

and arrange wood on the fire
The Hebrew word for "arrange" is "עָרַךְ" (arak), meaning to set in order or prepare. This indicates that the priests were to carefully and thoughtfully prepare the altar for sacrifice. The wood, "עֵצִים" (etzim), was the fuel for the fire, necessary for the burning of the offerings. The act of arranging wood signifies preparation and intentionality in worship. It reflects the need for order and diligence in approaching God, reminding believers of the importance of preparing their hearts and lives for worship. The wood also symbolizes the human effort and participation required in the sacrificial process, pointing to the cooperation between divine provision and human response in the covenant relationship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The first high priest of Israel, brother of Moses, and a key figure in establishing the priestly line. His sons were appointed to serve as priests.

2. Sons of Aaron
The descendants of Aaron who were designated as priests to serve in the tabernacle, performing sacrifices and maintaining the rituals prescribed by God.

3. The Altar
A sacred place in the tabernacle where sacrifices were offered to God. It symbolizes the place of atonement and worship.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness, where God's presence dwelled among His people.

5. The Fire
Represents God's presence and the continuous need for purification and dedication in worship.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priesthood
The priests were responsible for maintaining the fire on the altar, symbolizing the continuous need for atonement and dedication to God. This reflects the importance of spiritual leadership and responsibility in guiding others in worship.

The Significance of Fire
Fire on the altar represents God's presence and the need for purification. In our lives, we must continually seek God's presence and allow His refining fire to purify our hearts.

Continuous Worship
Just as the fire on the altar was to be kept burning, our worship and devotion to God should be constant and unwavering. This calls for a daily commitment to prayer, reading Scripture, and living out our faith.

Symbolism of Wood
The wood arranged on the fire signifies preparation and intentionality in worship. We must be deliberate in our spiritual practices, ensuring that our lives are aligned with God's will.

Priestly Duties and Christian Living
As believers, we are called to be a royal priesthood, serving God and others. This involves living a life of sacrifice, service, and dedication, reflecting Christ's love and grace to the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Aaron's sons in maintaining the altar fire relate to our responsibilities as Christians today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that the "fire" of our spiritual life remains burning continuously?

3. How does the symbolism of fire in Leviticus 1:7 connect to the concept of God's presence and purification in other parts of the Bible?

4. What practical steps can we take to prepare and arrange our lives for effective worship and service to God?

5. How does understanding our identity as a "royal priesthood" influence the way we live out our faith in daily life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Details the consecration of Aaron and his sons, establishing their roles and responsibilities as priests, including maintaining the altar fire.

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

1 Peter 2
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, drawing a parallel between the priestly duties of Aaron's sons and the spiritual responsibilities of Christians today.