Leviticus 7:15

The meat of the sacrifice of his peace offering of thanksgiving must be eaten on the day he offers it; none of it may be left until morning.

Study Bible

The meat of the sacrifice
This phrase refers to the physical portion of the offering, specifically the flesh of the animal that was sacrificed. In Hebrew, the word for "meat" is "בָּשָׂר" (basar), which can also mean "flesh." The peace offering, or "שְׁלָמִים" (shelamim), is a type of sacrifice that symbolizes fellowship and communion with God. It is a voluntary act of worship, expressing thanksgiving and fulfillment of vows. The peace offering is unique in that it is shared among the altar, the priests, and the offerer, symbolizing a communal meal with God.

of his peace offerings
The term "peace offerings" comes from the Hebrew "שְׁלָמִים" (shelamim), which is derived from "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), meaning peace, wholeness, or completeness. This offering is a celebration of the covenant relationship between God and His people, emphasizing reconciliation and harmony. Historically, peace offerings were a way for the Israelites to express gratitude and maintain a right relationship with God, acknowledging His provision and blessings.

must be eaten on the day he offers it
This requirement underscores the immediacy and urgency of the act of worship. The Hebrew verb "אָכַל" (akal) means "to eat," and it signifies the consumption of the sacrifice as an integral part of the ritual. Eating the sacrifice on the same day it is offered highlights the importance of participating in the sacred meal while it is fresh, symbolizing the immediacy of God's presence and the need for prompt obedience and gratitude.

he must not leave any of it until morning
This command emphasizes the completeness and finality of the offering. The Hebrew word "לֹא" (lo) means "not," and "יַעֲזֹב" (ya'azov) means "to leave" or "to abandon." By not leaving any of the sacrifice until morning, the offerer demonstrates a full commitment to the act of worship and ensures that the offering remains pure and undefiled. This practice also reflects the transient nature of life and the need to rely on God's daily provision, as seen in the provision of manna in the wilderness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including the instructions for offerings.

2. Israelites
- The chosen people of God, to whom the laws and instructions for sacrifices were given.

3. Tabernacle
- The portable dwelling place for the divine presence, where sacrifices and offerings were made.

4. Peace Offerings
- A type of sacrifice in the Levitical system, symbolizing fellowship and thanksgiving to God.

5. Thanksgiving
- A specific type of peace offering expressing gratitude to God.

Teaching Points

Immediate Gratitude
The requirement to eat the offering on the same day underscores the importance of expressing gratitude promptly. In our lives, we should not delay in giving thanks to God for His blessings.

Completeness of Offering
Leaving none of the offering until morning signifies the completeness and totality of our devotion and thanksgiving to God. We should strive to give our whole selves in worship and service.

Community and Fellowship
Peace offerings were often shared among the offerer, the priests, and God, symbolizing fellowship. Our acts of thanksgiving should also foster community and shared joy among believers.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The peace offering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who brings us peace with God. Our thanksgiving should always be rooted in the recognition of Christ's sacrifice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement to eat the peace offering on the same day reflect the nature of our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our expressions of gratitude to God are immediate and sincere?

3. How does the concept of peace offerings in Leviticus connect to the New Testament understanding of fellowship and community?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer a "sacrifice of praise" in our daily lives, as mentioned in Hebrews 13:15?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our appreciation of Jesus' sacrifice and our response to it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:28
- Discusses the portions of offerings that belong to the priests, highlighting the communal aspect of sacrifices.

Leviticus 22:29-30
- Reinforces the requirement that thanksgiving offerings must be eaten on the same day, emphasizing the immediacy and sincerity of gratitude.

Psalm 50:14
- Encourages offering thanksgiving to God, connecting the act of sacrifice with a heart of gratitude.

Hebrews 13:15
- Speaks of offering a sacrifice of praise, drawing a parallel between Old Testament sacrifices and New Testament worship.