Leviticus 3:11

Then the priest is to burn them on the altar as food, an offering made by fire to the LORD.

Study Bible

The priest
In the context of Leviticus, the priest plays a crucial role as a mediator between God and the people of Israel. The Hebrew word for priest is "kohen," which signifies someone who is set apart for sacred duties. Historically, the priesthood was established through Aaron and his descendants, emphasizing the importance of lineage and divine appointment. The priest's role in offering sacrifices underscores the necessity of holiness and purity in approaching God.

shall burn them
The act of burning in sacrificial rituals is significant, as it symbolizes the complete surrender and dedication of the offering to God. The Hebrew word "qatar" is used here, which means to make smoke or to offer incense. This act of burning transforms the physical offering into a spiritual one, ascending to God as a pleasing aroma. It reflects the idea of purification and the transformation of the earthly into the divine.

on the altar
The altar is a central element in the worship practices of ancient Israel. It serves as the meeting point between the divine and the human. The Hebrew term "mizbeach" refers to a place of sacrifice, derived from the root "zabach," meaning to slaughter or sacrifice. The altar represents God's presence and His willingness to accept offerings from His people, highlighting the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

as a food offering
The phrase "food offering" comes from the Hebrew "lechem," which means bread or food. This offering is not for God's sustenance but symbolizes fellowship and communion with Him. It reflects the idea that God provides for His people and, in turn, they offer back to Him as an act of gratitude and worship. The food offering signifies the sustenance of the spiritual relationship between God and His people.

made by fire
Fire in the sacrificial system represents God's holiness and His consuming presence. The Hebrew word "esh" for fire is often associated with divine judgment and purification. The use of fire in offerings indicates the need for purification and the removal of impurities, allowing the offering to be acceptable to God. It also symbolizes God's acceptance and the transformation of the offering into a spiritual act of worship.

to the LORD
The term "LORD" in the BSB is a translation of the Hebrew "YHWH," the sacred and covenantal name of God. This name signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. Offering sacrifices to the LORD emphasizes the personal and covenantal relationship between God and His people. It is a reminder of His sovereignty, holiness, and the grace extended to those who come to Him in obedience and faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest is the mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals as prescribed in the Law of Moses.

2. Altar
A sacred place where offerings and sacrifices are made to God. It symbolizes the meeting point between God and man.

3. Offering
In this context, it refers to the peace offering, which is a voluntary act of worship, expressing thanksgiving and fellowship.

4. LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

5. Sacrificial System
The system of offerings and sacrifices instituted by God for Israel, serving as a means of atonement and worship.

Teaching Points

Understanding Sacrifice
The peace offering symbolizes reconciliation and fellowship with God. It teaches us the importance of maintaining a right relationship with God through worship and thanksgiving.

Role of the Priest
The priest's role in offering sacrifices points to Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who mediates a new covenant and offers Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.

Symbolism of Fire
Fire represents God's holiness and the purifying nature of His presence. Our lives, like the offerings, should be purified and dedicated to God.

Communal Aspect of Worship
The peace offering involved both the priest and the offerer, highlighting the communal nature of worship. As believers, we are called to worship together, fostering unity and fellowship.

Living Sacrifices
In light of Christ's sacrifice, we are called to live sacrificially, dedicating our lives to God's service and seeking to please Him in all we do.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 3:11 foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can we offer "sacrifices of praise" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Hebrews 13:15-16?

3. What does the communal aspect of the peace offering teach us about the importance of fellowship in the church today?

4. How can we apply the concept of being "living sacrifices" from Romans 12:1 in our personal walk with God?

5. Reflecting on the symbolism of fire in the sacrificial system, how can we seek God's purifying presence in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 7:11-21
Provides further details on the peace offering, including the portions to be consumed by the priests and the offerer, emphasizing communal fellowship.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Encourages believers to offer sacrifices of praise and good deeds, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament sacrifices as acts of worship.

Romans 12:1
Calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is a spiritual act of worship, connecting the physical sacrifices of the Old Testament to spiritual devotion in the New Testament.