Leviticus 6:18

Any male among the sons of Aaron may eat it. This is a permanent portion from the offerings made by fire to the LORD for the generations to come. Anything that touches them will become holy."

Study Bible

Any male among the sons of Aaron
This phrase emphasizes the exclusivity and sanctity of the priestly lineage. The "sons of Aaron" refers to the descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses, who was appointed as the first high priest. In the Hebrew context, the priesthood was a hereditary office, and only males from Aaron's line were eligible to serve in this capacity. This highlights the importance of maintaining purity and continuity in the priestly duties, as they were responsible for mediating between God and the people of Israel. The male descendants were set apart for this sacred service, underscoring the patriarchal structure of ancient Israelite society and the specific roles assigned within it.

may eat it
The act of eating the offerings signifies participation in the holy service and the sustenance provided by God through the sacrificial system. In the ancient Near Eastern context, sharing a meal often symbolized fellowship and covenantal relationships. For the priests, consuming the offerings was not merely a physical act but a spiritual one, representing their partaking in the holiness of the sacrifices. This consumption was a privilege and a responsibility, as it required the priests to maintain ritual purity to partake in the holy offerings.

This is a permanent statute for your generations
The phrase "permanent statute" (Hebrew: חֻקַּת עוֹלָם, chukat olam) indicates an enduring ordinance meant to be observed perpetually by the Israelites. This underscores the timeless nature of God's commandments and the continuity of the covenant relationship between God and His people. The phrase "for your generations" reinforces the idea that these instructions were not limited to the immediate audience but were intended for all future descendants, ensuring the perpetuation of the priestly duties and the sacrificial system as a central aspect of Israelite worship.

from the offerings made by fire to the LORD
The "offerings made by fire" refer to the sacrifices that were burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD. These offerings were a central component of the Levitical sacrificial system, symbolizing atonement, thanksgiving, and dedication to God. The fire represents God's presence and His acceptance of the sacrifices. The phrase highlights the divine origin and purpose of the offerings, as they were not merely ritualistic acts but expressions of worship and obedience to God.

Whatever touches them shall become holy
This statement underscores the concept of holiness as both a state and a transformative process. In the Hebrew context, holiness (קֹדֶשׁ, kodesh) is associated with being set apart for God's purposes. The idea that anything that touches the holy offerings becomes holy reflects the contagious nature of holiness, as contact with the sacred imparts sanctity. This principle emphasizes the need for purity and reverence in handling the holy things of God, as well as the transformative power of God's holiness to sanctify and consecrate.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The first high priest of Israel, brother of Moses, and a central figure in the establishment of the priesthood.

2. Sons of Aaron
The descendants of Aaron who were designated as priests to serve in the tabernacle and later in the temple.

3. Offerings Made by Fire
Sacrifices presented to God, often involving burnt offerings, which were a central part of Israelite worship.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature.

5. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God during their journey through the wilderness.

Teaching Points

The Holiness of God’s Offerings
The offerings made by fire were considered holy, and only those consecrated (the priests) could partake in them. This underscores the holiness required to approach God.

The Role of the Priesthood
The sons of Aaron had specific roles and privileges, highlighting the importance of order and obedience in worship. This can be related to the roles within the church today.

Generational Faithfulness
The statute was to be observed by all generations, emphasizing the importance of passing down faith and obedience to future generations.

The Concept of Holiness
"Whatever touches them shall become holy" indicates the transformative power of holiness, pointing to the need for purity in our lives as believers.

Christ as Our High Priest
The Levitical priesthood points forward to Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who makes us holy through His sacrifice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the sons of Aaron in Leviticus 6:18 relate to the concept of a "royal priesthood" mentioned in 1 Peter 2:9?

2. In what ways can the principle of generational faithfulness be applied in our families and church communities today?

3. How does the holiness required of the priests in Leviticus inform our understanding of personal holiness as Christians?

4. What are some practical ways we can honor the holiness of God in our daily lives, drawing from the principles in Leviticus 6:18?

5. How does the priesthood of Aaron and his sons foreshadow the priesthood of Jesus Christ, and what implications does this have for our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Details the consecration of Aaron and his sons, establishing the priesthood and their duties.

Numbers 18
Discusses the responsibilities and privileges of the priests and Levites, including the consumption of certain offerings.

Hebrews 7
Explores the priesthood of Jesus Christ, drawing parallels and contrasts with the Levitical priesthood.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the Old Testament priesthood to the New Testament church.

Matthew 5:17
Jesus speaks about fulfilling the Law, which includes the sacrificial system and its ultimate purpose.