Leviticus 4:10

just as the fat is removed from the ox of the peace offering. Then the priest shall burn them on the altar of burnt offering.

Study Bible

just as the fat is removed
In the Hebrew text, the word for "fat" is "חֵלֶב" (chelev), which refers to the choicest or best part of the animal. In ancient Israelite sacrificial practices, the fat was considered the richest part and was reserved for God. This act of removing the fat symbolizes offering the best to God, a principle that resonates throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of giving God our first and finest in all aspects of life.

from the ox of the peace offering
The "peace offering," or "שְׁלָמִים" (shelamim) in Hebrew, was a voluntary sacrifice expressing thanksgiving and fellowship with God. The ox, a valuable and significant animal, represents a substantial offering, indicating the worshiper's deep gratitude and desire for communion with God. Historically, peace offerings were communal meals, symbolizing reconciliation and shared joy between God and His people.

Then the priest shall burn them
The role of the priest, or "כֹּהֵן" (kohen), was to mediate between God and the people. The act of burning the fat on the altar signifies the transformation of the offering into a pleasing aroma to the Lord, as described in Leviticus 3:16. This burning represents purification and dedication, illustrating the priest's duty to facilitate the people's worship and maintain the sanctity of the sacrificial system.

on the altar of burnt offering
The "altar of burnt offering," or "מִזְבֵּחַ הָעֹלָה" (mizbeach ha'olah), was central to the tabernacle and later the temple, symbolizing God's presence and the place where atonement was made. The altar was a constant reminder of the need for sacrifice and the seriousness of sin. Historically, it was constructed with specific materials and dimensions, as detailed in Exodus 27:1-8, underscoring the importance of approaching God according to His prescribed way.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Altar of Burnt Offering
A sacred place where sacrifices were made to God, symbolizing atonement and dedication.

3. Ox of the Peace Offering
An animal used in the peace offering, which was a voluntary sacrifice expressing gratitude and fellowship with God.

4. Fat
Considered the best part of the animal, it was reserved for God, symbolizing giving the best to Him.

5. Israelites
The people of God who were given the Law to follow, including the sacrificial system for atonement and worship.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest's role in the sacrificial system highlights the need for mediation between God and humanity, pointing to Jesus as our High Priest.

Significance of the Altar
The altar represents a place of surrender and dedication. In our lives, we are called to lay down our desires and offer our best to God.

Symbolism of the Fat
Offering the fat symbolizes giving God the best of what we have. In our daily lives, we should prioritize God and offer Him our best efforts and resources.

Understanding Sacrifice
The sacrificial system foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Understanding this helps us appreciate the depth of His love and the completeness of His atonement.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to be living sacrifices, dedicating our lives to God's service and living in a way that honors Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 4:10 point to the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can we offer our "best" to God in our daily lives, similar to the offering of the fat in the sacrificial system?

3. How does the concept of the altar in the Old Testament relate to the idea of being a living sacrifice in Romans 12:1?

4. What can we learn from the sacrificial system about the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrifices enhance our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice as described in Hebrews 10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Describes the peace offering in detail, providing context for the removal of fat and its significance.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the Law.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system as a form of worship.