Leviticus 4:9

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 in ancient Hebrew culture were often seen as the seat of emotion and moral decision-making, akin to the heart in modern Western thought. Offering the kidneys in a sacrifice symbolized the surrender of one's innermost thoughts and emotions to God. This act of offering signifies a complete submission to God's will, acknowledging His sovereignty over our deepest desires and intentions.

with the fat that is on them
The Hebrew word for "fat" is "חֵלֶב" (chelev), which refers to the choicest or best part of the animal. In the sacrificial system, the fat was considered the richest part and was thus reserved for God. This symbolizes giving God the best of what we have, not just the leftovers. It is a call to prioritize God in our lives, offering Him the first and finest of our resources, time, and devotion.

near the loins
The term "loins" in Hebrew is "כְּסָלִים" (kesalim), which refers to the area of strength and procreation. This part of the sacrifice underscores the idea of offering one's strength and vitality to God. It is a reminder that our physical and creative energies should be dedicated to serving and honoring God, recognizing Him as the source of our strength and the one who sustains us.

and the lobe of the liver
The "lobe of the liver" in Hebrew is "יֹתֶרֶת הַכָּבֵד" (yoteret ha-kaved). The liver was considered a vital organ, essential for life. In the context of the sacrifice, removing the lobe of the liver signifies the offering of one's life force to God. It is an acknowledgment that our very lives belong to Him, and we are to live in a way that reflects His holiness and righteousness.

which he shall remove with the kidneys
The act of removal, "יָסִיר" (yasir), indicates a deliberate and careful separation. This careful removal signifies the intentionality required in our spiritual lives. Just as the priest meticulously separates these parts for the offering, we are called to intentionally set apart aspects of our lives for God. It is a call to holiness, urging us to examine our lives and remove anything that hinders our relationship with God.

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. Aaron and His Sons
The priests who were responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals as outlined in Leviticus.

3. Israelites
The people of God who were given these laws to maintain holiness and atonement for sins.

4. Tabernacle
The place where the sacrifices were offered, representing God's dwelling among His people.

5. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice described in Leviticus 4, intended for atonement of unintentional sins.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sacrificial System
The detailed instructions for sacrifices in Leviticus highlight the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. This points to the holiness of God and the separation sin causes between God and humanity.

Symbolism of the Sacrifice
The removal of specific parts of the animal, such as the kidneys and liver, symbolizes the thoroughness required in dealing with sin. It reminds us of the need for complete surrender and purification in our spiritual lives.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sin offering foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Understanding these Old Testament practices enriches our appreciation of Jesus' atoning work on the cross.

Living as a Sacrifice
As believers, we are called to live sacrificially, offering our lives in service to God. This involves daily surrender and seeking holiness in all aspects of life.

Priestly Role of Believers
Just as the priests were mediators between God and the people, Christians are called to intercede for others and live as examples of God's grace and truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed description of the sin offering in Leviticus 4:9 help us understand the gravity of sin and the need for atonement?

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

3. How can we apply the concept of being a "living sacrifice" in our daily lives, as described in Romans 12?

4. What does it mean to be part of a "royal priesthood" as mentioned in 1 Peter 2, and how does this relate to the priestly duties in Leviticus?

5. How can understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our worship and relationship with God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, establishing the priesthood and their duties, including sacrifices.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrifices and how they point to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

Psalm 51
David's prayer of repentance, highlighting the importance of a contrite heart over ritual sacrifices.

Romans 12
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system.

1 Peter 2
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the Old Testament priestly duties to the New Testament church.