Leviticus 6:16

Aaron and his sons are to eat the remainder. It must be eaten without leaven in a holy place; they are to eat it in the courtyard of the Tent of Meeting.

Study Bible

Aaron and his sons
This phrase refers to the priestly lineage established by God through Aaron, the brother of Moses. In the Hebrew context, "Aaron" (אַהֲרֹן, Aharon) signifies the first high priest, and his sons represent the continuation of the priestly duties. This lineage is crucial as it underscores the hereditary nature of the priesthood in Israel, emphasizing the sanctity and responsibility bestowed upon Aaron's family. Historically, this priestly line was essential for maintaining the spiritual and ritual purity of the nation.

are to eat the remainder
The "remainder" refers to what is left of the grain offering after a portion has been offered to God. In Hebrew, the word for remainder is "שְׁאֵרִית" (she'erit), which often implies what is left over or preserved. This act of eating the remainder signifies the priests' participation in the offerings, symbolizing their role as mediators between God and the people. It also highlights the provision for the priests, as they were sustained by the offerings brought by the Israelites.

It must be eaten as unleavened bread
Unleavened bread, or "מַצָּה" (matzah) in Hebrew, is bread made without yeast. In the biblical context, unleavened bread symbolizes purity and the absence of sin, as leaven often represents corruption or sin. The requirement for the bread to be unleavened underscores the holiness required in the consumption of the offerings, reflecting the purity and sanctity expected of the priests.

in a holy place
The "holy place" refers to a consecrated area designated for sacred activities. In Hebrew, "קֹדֶשׁ" (qodesh) means holy or set apart. This requirement emphasizes the separation between the sacred and the profane, ensuring that the consumption of the offerings occurs in an environment that reflects God's holiness. It serves as a reminder of the reverence and respect due to God in all acts of worship.

they are to eat it in the courtyard of the Tent of Meeting
The "courtyard of the Tent of Meeting" was the designated area within the tabernacle complex where the priests performed their duties. The Tent of Meeting, or "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (Ohel Mo'ed) in Hebrew, was the central place of worship and divine encounter for the Israelites. Eating in the courtyard signifies the proximity to God's presence and the importance of maintaining ritual purity. It also reflects the communal aspect of worship, as the priests partake in the offerings on behalf of the people, reinforcing their role as intermediaries between God and Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The first high priest of Israel, brother of Moses, and a key figure in the establishment of the priestly order.

2. Aaron's Sons
The descendants of Aaron who served as priests, responsible for performing the rituals and sacrifices as outlined in the Law.

3. Holy Place
Refers to the sacred area designated for worship and sacrifice, specifically the courtyard of the Tent of Meeting.

4. Tent of Meeting
The portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where the priests performed their duties.

5. Leaven
A substance, typically yeast, used in dough to make it rise. In the context of sacrifices, leaven is often symbolic of sin or corruption.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priesthood
The priesthood, represented by Aaron and his sons, was integral to maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Their duties were a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate priesthood.

Symbolism of Leaven
Leaven, often representing sin, was excluded from offerings to signify purity and holiness. This calls believers to examine their lives for sin and strive for holiness.

Sacred Spaces
The courtyard of the Tent of Meeting was a designated holy place, reminding us of the importance of reverence and respect for places of worship today.

Communal and Personal Holiness
The consumption of the offering by the priests in a holy place underscores the communal aspect of holiness, where personal and collective purity are intertwined.

Christ as Our High Priest
The priestly duties and the sacrificial system point to Jesus Christ, who fulfills and surpasses these roles, offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Aaron and his sons as priests relate to the New Testament understanding of the priesthood of all believers?

2. In what ways does the prohibition of leaven in offerings challenge us to address sin in our own lives?

3. What significance does the "holy place" hold in our modern context of worship and community?

4. How can we apply the principles of communal holiness in our church communities today?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament priesthood enhance our appreciation of Christ's role as our High Priest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Details the consecration of Aaron and his sons, establishing their roles and responsibilities as priests.

Leviticus 2
Discusses the grain offerings, emphasizing the prohibition of leaven in offerings made by fire to the Lord.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul uses the metaphor of leaven to discuss purity and sin within the church, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament symbolism.

Hebrews 9
Explores the role of the high priest and the significance of the earthly sanctuary as a shadow of heavenly realities.