Leviticus 2:5

If your offering is a grain offering prepared on a griddle, it must be unleavened bread made of fine flour mixed with oil.

Study Bible

If your offering
The Hebrew word for "offering" is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near or presented to God. This reflects the heart of worship, where the act of offering is a means of drawing closer to the divine. In the context of Leviticus, offerings were a central part of Israelite worship, symbolizing dedication, thanksgiving, and atonement.

is a grain offering
The grain offering, or "מִנְחָה" (minchah), was a tribute to God, often representing the fruits of one's labor. Unlike animal sacrifices, grain offerings were bloodless, emphasizing the provision and sustenance God provides. This offering was a way for the Israelites to acknowledge God's sovereignty over the land and their dependence on Him for daily sustenance.

prepared on a griddle
The griddle, or "מַחֲבַת" (machavat), was a flat cooking surface used in ancient times. This method of preparation indicates a simple, humble offering, accessible to all, regardless of wealth. It underscores the idea that God values the heart behind the offering more than the offering itself, as even the simplest gifts, when given with sincerity, are pleasing to Him.

it must be of fine flour
"Fine flour" or "סֹלֶת" (solet) represents the best of the harvest, a refined and pure product. Offering fine flour signifies giving God the best of what one has, a principle that resonates throughout Scripture. It is a call to excellence in worship, reminding believers to offer their best in service and devotion to God.

unleavened
Leaven, or yeast, often symbolizes sin or corruption in the Bible. The requirement for the offering to be unleavened, or "מַצָּה" (matzah), highlights the need for purity and holiness in approaching God. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, where unleavened bread was eaten in haste, symbolizing a break from the past and a new beginning in God's covenant.

mixed with oil
Oil, or "שֶׁמֶן" (shemen), is frequently associated with anointing and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Mixing the offering with oil signifies consecration and the infusion of divine grace. It points to the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life, enabling them to live a life pleasing to God and to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The author of Leviticus, who received the laws and instructions from God to give to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
- The recipients of the Levitical laws, including the instructions for grain offerings.

3. Tabernacle
- The place where offerings were brought and presented to God.

4. Priests
- The individuals responsible for performing the rituals and offerings as prescribed in the law.

5. Grain Offering
- A type of offering made to God, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Ingredients
The use of fine flour and oil in the grain offering symbolizes purity and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Just as the offering was to be without yeast, our lives should be free from sin.

Holiness in Worship
The detailed instructions for offerings highlight the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. Our worship should be intentional and sincere, reflecting our dedication to God.

Thanksgiving and Dedication
The grain offering was a way for the Israelites to express gratitude and commitment to God. In our lives, we should regularly offer thanks and dedicate our resources and talents to His service.

Consistency in Faith
Just as the grain offering was a regular part of Israelite worship, we should consistently practice our faith through prayer, study, and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the absence of yeast in the grain offering teach us about the nature of sin and purity in our lives?

2. How can the symbolism of fine flour and oil in the grain offering be applied to our personal spiritual growth?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is as intentional and sincere as the offerings described in Leviticus?

4. How does the concept of thanksgiving and dedication in the grain offering translate to our modern-day practices of giving and service?

5. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain consistency in our faith, similar to the regularity of the grain offerings in Israelite worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:2
- Discusses the use of fine flour and oil in the consecration of priests, showing the importance of these elements in worship.

Leviticus 6:14-18
- Provides further instructions on the grain offering, emphasizing its role in the priestly duties and its holy nature.

1 Corinthians 5:6-8
- Paul uses the imagery of yeast to discuss purity and sin, connecting the absence of yeast in offerings to the call for holiness in the Christian life.