Leviticus 3:10

both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys.

Study Bible

both kidneys
In the Hebrew text, the word for "kidneys" is "כְּלָיוֹת" (kelayot). The kidneys were considered the seat of emotion and thought in ancient Hebrew culture, much like the heart is viewed today. Offering the kidneys symbolized giving one's innermost thoughts and emotions to God. This act of sacrifice was a profound gesture of devotion and submission, acknowledging that even our deepest feelings and intentions should be aligned with God's will.

with the fat on them
The Hebrew word for "fat" is "חֵלֶב" (chelev). In the sacrificial system, fat was considered the best part of the animal, representing richness and abundance. Offering the fat to God was a way of giving Him the best portion, signifying that God deserves the finest of what we have. This act reminds believers to prioritize God in their lives, offering Him not just what is left over, but the very best of their resources and efforts.

near the loins
The loins, or "כְּסָלִים" (kesalim) in Hebrew, refer to the area of the body associated with strength and procreation. In a broader sense, this symbolizes the core of one's being and vitality. By offering the parts near the loins, the worshiper acknowledges that their strength and life force are gifts from God, and they are dedicating their entire being to His service.

and the lobe of the liver
The "lobe of the liver" is referred to as "יֹתֶרֶת הַכָּבֵד" (yoteret ha-kaved) in Hebrew. The liver was seen as a vital organ, essential for life. In the context of the peace offering, removing the lobe of the liver signifies a complete and total offering to God, holding nothing back. It is a reminder of the importance of wholehearted devotion and the surrender of one's life to God's purposes.

which he is to remove with the kidneys
The act of removing these parts, "וְהֵסִיר אֹתָהּ" (vehesir otah), is a deliberate and careful process. This careful removal signifies the intentionality required in worship and sacrifice. It is not a haphazard act but a thoughtful and purposeful offering. This teaches believers the importance of approaching God with reverence and intentionality, ensuring that their worship is sincere and meaningful.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai and communicated them to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the laws to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing the sacrifices and maintaining the rituals as prescribed in the Law.

4. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God and where the sacrifices were offered.

5. Peace Offering
A type of sacrifice described in Leviticus, symbolizing fellowship and communion with God.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sacrificial System
The peace offering was a voluntary act of worship, symbolizing peace and fellowship with God. It teaches us about the importance of intentional worship and gratitude.

Symbolism of the Fat and Organs
The specific parts of the animal (fat, kidneys, liver) were considered the best portions and were offered to God, symbolizing giving our best to Him. This calls us to examine what we offer to God in our lives.

Holiness and Obedience
The detailed instructions for sacrifices highlight God's holiness and the need for precise obedience. This reminds us of the importance of following God's commands with reverence.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The peace offering points forward to Christ, who is our ultimate peace offering, reconciling us to God. This deepens our understanding of the New Covenant and the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to be living sacrifices, offering our lives in service and worship to God. This challenges us to consider how we live out our faith daily.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the peace offering in Leviticus 3:10 reflect the Israelites' relationship with God, and what can we learn from this about our own relationship with Him?

2. In what ways does the detailed description of the sacrificial parts (fat, kidneys, liver) challenge us to consider what we offer to God in our personal lives?

3. How does the concept of offering the best portions to God in Leviticus relate to the idea of being a "living sacrifice" as described in Romans 12?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our worship and service to God are done with the right heart and attitude, as emphasized in 1 Samuel 15 and Psalm 51?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice as described in Hebrews 9?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Describes the consecration of the priests and the offerings required, providing context for the sacrificial system.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sacrifice.

Romans 12
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system in Leviticus.

1 Samuel 15
Highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice, emphasizing the heart behind the offering.

Psalm 51
David's prayer of repentance, which underscores the need for a contrite heart over ritualistic offerings.