Leviticus 3:16

Then the priest is to burn the food on the altar as an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma. All the fat is the LORD's.

Study Bible

The priest shall burn them on the altar
In the ancient Hebrew context, the role of the priest was central to the sacrificial system. The Hebrew word for "priest" is "kohen," which signifies one who mediates between God and man. The act of burning on the altar symbolizes complete dedication to God. The altar, "mizbeach" in Hebrew, was a sacred place where offerings were made, representing the meeting point between the divine and the earthly. This act of burning signifies purification and transformation, turning the physical into a spiritual offering.

as food, an offering made by fire
The phrase "as food" in Hebrew is "lechem," which generally means bread or sustenance. Here, it metaphorically represents the offering as nourishment for the divine presence. The "offering made by fire" or "isheh" in Hebrew, indicates a sacrificial act that involves fire, symbolizing the presence of God, as fire often represents divine holiness and purification. This offering is a tangible expression of worship and reverence, acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty.

a pleasing aroma
The Hebrew term "reyach nichoach" translates to "a pleasing aroma," which is a recurring phrase in the sacrificial texts. This concept conveys the idea that the offering, when given with a sincere heart, is acceptable and delightful to God. It reflects the relational aspect of worship, where the physical act of sacrifice transcends into spiritual communion with God. The aroma symbolizes the acceptance and favor of God towards the worshiper.

All the fat belongs to the LORD
In the ancient Near Eastern context, fat was considered the best part of the animal, symbolizing richness and abundance. The Hebrew word "chelev" refers to this fat, which was seen as the choicest portion. By declaring that "all the fat belongs to the LORD," the scripture emphasizes the principle of giving God the best of what we have. It underscores the idea of total devotion and the acknowledgment that all blessings and abundance ultimately come from God. This directive serves as a reminder of God's holiness and the call for His people to honor Him with their finest offerings.

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 the divine and the human.

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

4. LORD (YHWH)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature, and His relationship with Israel.

5. Fat
Considered the best part of the animal, it is reserved for God as a sign of giving Him the best portion.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Sacrifice
Sacrifices in the Old Testament were a way to maintain a relationship with God. Today, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices through our lives and actions.

Giving God Our Best
Just as the fat was considered the best part and given to God, we should strive to give God the best of our time, resources, and talents.

A Pleasing Aroma
Our lives should be a pleasing aroma to God, characterized by obedience, worship, and thanksgiving.

Understanding God's Holiness
The requirement that all fat belongs to the LORD underscores His holiness and the need for reverence in our approach to Him.

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar represents a place of surrender and dedication. We are called to lay down our lives in service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 3:16 relate to the role of Jesus as our High Priest in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we offer our "best" to God in our daily lives, similar to the offering of fat in Leviticus 3:16?

3. How does the concept of a "pleasing aroma" in Leviticus 3:16 connect to the New Testament teachings on living a life that pleases God?

4. What are some modern-day "altars" where we can offer sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving to God?

5. How can understanding the holiness of God, as emphasized in Leviticus 3:16, impact our worship and relationship with Him today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4
The account of Cain and Abel highlights the importance of offering the best to God, as Abel's offering was accepted because it was from the firstborn of his flock.

1 Samuel 15
Saul's disobedience in not fully destroying the Amalekites and their livestock shows the importance of complete obedience to God's commands regarding offerings.

Romans 12
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is a spiritual act of worship.