Leviticus 3:15

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, symbolizing the innermost being of a person. Offering the kidneys in a sacrifice represented a deep, personal surrender to God, signifying the worshiper's desire to give their innermost thoughts and emotions to the Lord.

with the fat on them
The Hebrew word for "fat" is "חֵלֶב" (chelev), which refers to the best or choicest part of the animal. In the sacrificial system, the fat was considered the richest part and was reserved for God alone. This symbolizes giving God the best of what we have, acknowledging His supreme worthiness and our dependence on Him.

near the loins
The loins, or "כְּסָלִים" (kesalim) in Hebrew, refer to the area of the body associated with strength and procreation. This part of the sacrifice underscores the offering of one's strength and future to God, trusting Him with both present capabilities and future generations.

and the lobe of the liver
The "lobe of the liver" is translated from the Hebrew "יֹתֶרֶת הַכָּבֵד" (yoteret ha-kaved). The liver was seen as a vital organ, essential for life, and its inclusion in the sacrifice highlights the totality of the offering. It represents the surrender of one's life force and vitality to God, acknowledging Him as the source of life.

which you are to remove with the kidneys
The act of removing these parts for sacrifice, as instructed in the Hebrew "וְהֵסִיר אֹתָהּ עִם הַכְּלָיוֹת" (vehesir otah im hakelayot), signifies a deliberate and careful obedience to God's commands. It reflects the importance of following God's instructions precisely, demonstrating reverence and submission to His will.

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 recipients of the Levitical laws, including the instructions for peace offerings.

3. Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites were to bring their offerings, serving as the dwelling place of God among His people.

4. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were responsible for performing the sacrifices and offerings as prescribed in the law.

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

Teaching Points

Understanding the Symbolism
The specific parts of the animal (kidneys, fat, liver) represent the best portions, symbolizing giving God our best in worship and life.

Holiness and Purity
The detailed instructions for offerings remind us of God's holiness and the need for purity in our approach to Him.

Fellowship with God
The peace offering signifies restored fellowship with God, encouraging us to seek reconciliation and communion with Him.

Christ as Our Peace Offering
Jesus fulfills the peace offering, providing eternal peace and reconciliation with God through His sacrifice.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to live sacrificially, offering our lives in service and devotion to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the peace offering in Leviticus 3:15 reflect the Israelites' relationship with God, and how can we apply this to our relationship with Him today?

2. In what ways does the sacrificial system in Leviticus point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

3. How can we ensure that we are giving God our "best portions" in our daily lives and worship?

4. What does it mean to be a "living sacrifice" as described in Romans 12, and how can this concept transform our approach to worship and service?

5. How can the principles of obedience and a contrite heart, as seen in 1 Samuel 15 and Psalm 51, guide us in our spiritual walk and offerings to God?

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.

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.