Leviticus 2:10

But the remainder of the grain offering shall belong to Aaron and his sons; it is a most holy part of the offerings made by fire to the LORD.

Study Bible

But the rest of the grain offering
The phrase "the rest of the grain offering" refers to what remains after a portion has been offered on the altar. In Hebrew, the word for "grain offering" is "minchah," which signifies a gift or tribute. This offering was typically made of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing the fruits of human labor and dedication to God. The "rest" indicates that not all of the offering was consumed by fire, emphasizing God's provision for the priests who served Him.

belongs to Aaron and his sons
This phrase highlights the provision for the priestly family, Aaron and his sons, who were set apart for service in the tabernacle. The Hebrew word for "belongs" is "hayah," meaning to be or to become, indicating a rightful possession. This provision underscores the principle that those who minister in holy things should be supported by the offerings of the people, a concept echoed in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 9:13-14).

it is a most holy part
The term "most holy" in Hebrew is "qodesh qodashim," denoting the highest degree of sanctity. This classification of the offering signifies its exclusive dedication to God and His service. The "most holy" status required that it be handled with utmost reverence and consumed only by the priests within the sacred precincts, reflecting the holiness of God and the sanctity of His worship.

of the offerings made by fire
The phrase "offerings made by fire" refers to sacrifices that were partially or wholly consumed by fire on the altar. The Hebrew word "ishsheh" is used here, which means a fire offering. This act of burning symbolizes the complete surrender and dedication of the offering to God, transforming the physical into a spiritual act of worship, ascending to God as a pleasing aroma.

to the LORD
The phrase "to the LORD" emphasizes the ultimate recipient of the offering. In Hebrew, "LORD" is "YHWH," the covenant name of God, signifying His eternal, self-existent nature. This offering, though given to the priests, is ultimately directed to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and the covenant relationship between Him and His people. It serves as a reminder that all acts of worship and service are ultimately for His glory and honor.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. He and his descendants were designated to serve as priests.

2. Aaron's Sons
The descendants of Aaron who were also appointed to the priesthood, serving in the tabernacle and later in the temple.

3. Grain Offering
A type of offering made to the LORD, consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.

4. Offerings Made by Fire
Sacrifices that were burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD, signifying atonement and worship.

5. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who established the laws and rituals for His people, Israel.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priesthood
The priesthood was established by God to mediate between Him and the people, highlighting the importance of spiritual leadership and intercession.

Holiness of Offerings
The grain offering, as a "most holy part," underscores the sacredness of what is dedicated to God. Believers are called to offer their lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

Provision for God's Servants
The portion given to Aaron and his sons illustrates God's provision for those who serve Him. This principle encourages the support of those in ministry today.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
Represents thanksgiving and dedication, reminding believers to cultivate gratitude and commitment in their relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Aaron and his sons as priests relate to the concept of spiritual leadership in the church today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of offering our "most holy" to God in our daily lives?

3. How does the provision for the priests in Leviticus 2:10 inform our understanding of supporting church leaders and ministries?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the grain offering and the New Testament call for believers to be living sacrifices?

5. How does the concept of a "royal priesthood" in 1 Peter 2 expand our understanding of the priestly role in the life of a believer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Details the consecration of Aaron and his sons, establishing their role in the priesthood and their right to certain portions of the offerings.

Numbers 18
Expands on the rights and duties of the priests, including their share of the offerings, emphasizing their sustenance through the sacrifices.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood of Jesus Christ, drawing parallels between the Levitical priesthood and the eternal priesthood of Christ.

1 Peter 2
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the Old Testament priestly roles to the spiritual service of all Christians.