Leviticus 7:14

From the cakes he must present one portion of each offering as a contribution to the LORD. It belongs to the priest who sprinkles the blood of the peace offering.

Study Bible

From the cakes
The Hebrew word for "cakes" is "challah," which refers to a type of bread or cake made from fine flour. In the context of Leviticus, these cakes are part of the grain offerings that accompany the peace offerings. The use of "cakes" signifies the offering of the best produce of the land, symbolizing gratitude and acknowledgment of God's provision. Historically, bread has been a staple in the diet of the Israelites, representing sustenance and life. Offering cakes to God is an act of worship, recognizing Him as the ultimate provider.

he is to present
The act of presenting an offering is a deliberate and conscious act of worship. The Hebrew root "qarab" means to bring near or to offer. This signifies the worshiper's desire to draw near to God, acknowledging His holiness and seeking His favor. The presentation of offerings was a central part of Israelite worship, emphasizing the importance of approaching God with reverence and intentionality.

one as an offering
The specification of "one" highlights the principle of giving a portion back to God from what He has provided. The Hebrew word "terumah" is often used for offerings, indicating something lifted up or set apart for God. This act of setting apart a portion for God is a reminder of His sovereignty and the need for His people to honor Him with their firstfruits. It reflects a heart of gratitude and obedience, recognizing that all blessings come from Him.

to the LORD
The phrase "to the LORD" underscores the direction and purpose of the offering. The Hebrew name used here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal relationship with His people. Offerings were not merely ritualistic but were acts of devotion to Yahweh, the one true God. This relationship is central to the covenant between God and Israel, where offerings serve as a means of maintaining fellowship and expressing loyalty to Him.

it belongs to the priest
The portion given to the priest signifies the provision for those who serve in the temple. The Hebrew word "kohen" refers to the priest, who acts as a mediator between God and the people. By providing for the priest, the community supports the spiritual leadership and ensures the continuation of worship and sacrificial practices. This reflects the principle of sustaining those who dedicate their lives to God's service, acknowledging their role in maintaining the spiritual health of the nation.

who sprinkles the blood
The act of sprinkling blood is a critical component of the sacrificial system. The Hebrew word "zarak" means to scatter or sprinkle, and it is a symbolic act of atonement and purification. Blood represents life, and its sprinkling on the altar signifies the cleansing of sin and the restoration of fellowship with God. This act points to the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, whose blood would be shed for the redemption of humanity.

of the peace offerings
The "peace offerings," or "shelamim" in Hebrew, are offerings that symbolize reconciliation and fellowship with God. These offerings express gratitude, fulfillment of vows, or voluntary acts of worship. The peace offering is unique in that it is shared between the altar, the priest, and the offerer, symbolizing communion with God and community. It highlights the holistic nature of worship, involving God, His servants, and His people in a harmonious relationship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The central figure in the passage, to whom the offering is presented. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people.

2. The Priest
The individual who performs the ritual duties, including sprinkling the blood of the peace offerings. The priest acts as a mediator between God and the people.

3. The Offerer
The person bringing the cakes as part of the peace offering, symbolizing gratitude and fellowship with God.

4. Peace Offerings
A type of sacrifice in the Levitical system that signifies reconciliation and fellowship with God.

5. Cakes
Part of the grain offering, these are presented as a portion of the peace offering, symbolizing the offerer's dedication and thanksgiving to God.

Teaching Points

The Role of Offerings in Worship
Offerings are a tangible expression of worship and gratitude to God. They remind us of our dependence on Him and our commitment to His covenant.

The Priesthood and Mediation
The priest's role in the Old Testament foreshadows Christ's ultimate mediation. As believers, we are called to be a royal priesthood, mediating God's presence to the world.

Community and Fellowship
The peace offering emphasizes community and fellowship with God and others. Our worship should reflect unity and shared purpose within the body of Christ.

Gratitude and Generosity
Just as the offerer gave a portion to the priest, we are called to be generous, sharing our blessings with those who serve and lead in the faith community.

Symbolism of Bread
The cakes symbolize sustenance and life. In the New Testament, Jesus is the Bread of Life, fulfilling the symbolism of the offerings and sustaining us spiritually.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 7:14 help us understand the concept of mediation in our relationship with God today?

2. In what ways can we offer "spiritual sacrifices" in our daily lives, as suggested by 1 Peter 2:5?

3. How does the concept of peace offerings in Leviticus relate to the New Testament teachings on fellowship and community?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our worship includes gratitude and generosity, reflecting the principles of the peace offering?

5. How does understanding the symbolism of bread in the Old Testament enhance our appreciation of Jesus as the Bread of Life in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:24-28
This passage describes the wave offering and the portions given to the priests, establishing the precedent for the priestly share of offerings.

Hebrews 13:15-16
These verses encourage believers to offer sacrifices of praise and good deeds, drawing a parallel to the peace offerings as acts of worship and fellowship.

1 Peter 2:5
This verse speaks of believers as a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices, connecting the Old Testament priestly duties to the New Testament believer's role.