Leviticus 3:2

He is to lay his hand on the head of the offering and slaughter it at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. Then Aaron's sons the priests shall sprinkle the blood on all sides of the altar.

Study Bible

He is to lay his hand on the head of his offering
The act of laying one's hand on the head of the offering is deeply symbolic, representing the transfer of the offerer's identity and intentions onto the animal. In Hebrew, the word for "lay" is "samakh," which implies support or leaning upon. This gesture signifies the offerer's identification with the sacrifice, acknowledging that the offering is made on their behalf. It is a profound act of worship and submission, recognizing the need for atonement and the desire for reconciliation with God. Historically, this practice underscores the personal involvement and responsibility of the worshiper in the sacrificial system.

and slaughter it
The Hebrew term for "slaughter" is "shachat," which means to kill or butcher. This act is not merely a ritualistic formality but a solemn and sacred duty. It reflects the seriousness of sin and the cost of atonement. The act of slaughtering the offering is a vivid reminder of the consequences of sin and the necessity of a substitute to bear the penalty. In the broader scriptural context, this foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who was slain for the sins of humanity.

at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting," or "Ohel Moed" in Hebrew, was the designated place where God met with His people. The entrance signifies the threshold between the common and the holy, a place of transition where the divine and human realms intersect. Offering the sacrifice at this location emphasizes the accessibility of God to His people and the importance of approaching Him with reverence and obedience. It is a reminder that worship is both a privilege and a responsibility, requiring preparation and purity.

Then Aaron’s sons the priests
The priests, specifically the sons of Aaron, were consecrated to serve as mediators between God and the Israelites. Their role was crucial in the sacrificial system, as they were responsible for performing the rituals according to God's instructions. This highlights the importance of ordained leadership and the need for holiness and dedication in those who serve in spiritual capacities. The priesthood of Aaron's sons points to the greater priesthood of Jesus Christ, who intercedes for believers as the ultimate High Priest.

shall sprinkle the blood on all sides of the altar
The act of sprinkling the blood is rich in symbolism, representing purification and consecration. In Hebrew, the word for "sprinkle" is "zarak," which conveys the idea of scattering or dispersing. The blood, which is the life of the flesh (Leviticus 17:11), is applied to the altar to sanctify it and make atonement for the offerer. This ritual act signifies the cleansing power of the blood and the establishment of a covenant relationship with God. It prefigures the shed blood of Christ, which cleanses believers from sin and reconciles them to God. The altar, being the focal point of sacrifice, becomes a place of divine encounter and grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Offerer
The individual bringing the sacrifice, who lays his hand on the head of the offering, symbolizing identification and transfer of sin.

2. The Offering
A sacrificial animal, typically a peace offering, which is slaughtered as part of the ritual.

3. The Tent of Meeting
The sacred place where God met with Moses and the Israelites, serving as the central location for worship and sacrifices.

4. Aaron’s Sons (The Priests)
The descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals and maintaining the sanctity of the worship practices.

5. The Altar
The structure upon which sacrifices were made, symbolizing the place of atonement and communion with God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Laying on Hands
The act of laying hands on the offering signifies identification and the transfer of sin. In our lives, it reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our sins and seeking atonement through Christ.

Role of the Priests
The priests acted as mediators between God and the people. Today, Jesus is our High Priest, and we are called to be a royal priesthood, interceding for others and living lives that reflect His holiness.

Significance of the Blood
The sprinkling of blood on the altar symbolizes purification and atonement. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, whose blood cleanses us from all sin.

Worship at the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting was a place of divine encounter. In our spiritual walk, we are invited to meet with God regularly through prayer, worship, and the study of His Word.

The Altar as a Place of Surrender
The altar represents a place of surrender and dedication to God. We are called to lay down our lives and desires, submitting fully to His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of laying hands on the offering teach us about personal responsibility and confession of sin?

2. How does the role of the priests in Leviticus 3:2 foreshadow the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

3. In what ways can we apply the concept of the altar as a place of surrender in our daily lives?

4. How does the sacrificial system in Leviticus point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and what implications does this have for our faith?

5. Reflect on Romans 12:1. How can we present our bodies as living sacrifices in a way that is holy and pleasing to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:10-11
This passage describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, where a similar laying on of hands and slaughtering of a bull takes place, emphasizing the role of the priests in mediating between God and the people.

Hebrews 9:22
This New Testament verse highlights the necessity of blood for atonement, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system and emphasizing spiritual worship.