Leviticus 7:23

"Speak to the Israelites and say, 'You are not to eat any of the fat of an ox, a sheep, or a goat.

Study Bible

You are not to eat
This phrase is a direct command from God, emphasizing the importance of obedience to His laws. In Hebrew, the word for "eat" is "אָכַל" (akal), which means to consume or devour. The prohibition against eating certain parts of sacrificial animals underscores the need for holiness and separation from practices that might defile the Israelites. It reflects a broader principle of self-control and dedication to God's instructions, reminding believers of the importance of adhering to divine commands.

any of the fat
The Hebrew word for "fat" is "חֵלֶב" (chelev), which refers to the choicest or best part of the animal. In ancient Israel, fat was considered a luxury and a symbol of abundance. By prohibiting the consumption of fat, God was setting apart the best portions for Himself, as they were to be offered on the altar. This act of setting aside the best for God is a call to prioritize Him in all aspects of life, encouraging believers to offer their best in service and worship.

of an ox, a sheep, or a goat
These animals were commonly used in sacrificial offerings and were central to the agrarian lifestyle of the Israelites. The specific mention of these animals highlights their significance in the sacrificial system and the daily life of the community. Each animal had its own role and symbolism in the sacrificial rites, representing different aspects of atonement and fellowship with God. The prohibition against eating their fat serves as a reminder of the sacredness of the sacrificial system and the need to honor God's provisions and instructions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including dietary laws, and communicated them to the people.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God who were given specific laws to follow, including dietary restrictions, as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

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

4. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were responsible for performing sacrifices and ensuring the Israelites adhered to God's laws.

5. Levitical Law
The body of laws given to the Israelites, including dietary restrictions, which were intended to set them apart as holy.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Distinction
The dietary laws, including the prohibition against eating fat, were given to set the Israelites apart as a holy nation. As believers, we are called to live distinct lives that reflect God's holiness.

Obedience to God's Commands
The specific instructions in Leviticus remind us of the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when they may not make immediate sense to us.

Respect for God's Creation
The prohibition against eating certain parts of animals underscores a respect for God's creation and the life He has given.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
Fat was often used in sacrifices, symbolizing the best portion given to God. This teaches us to offer our best to God in all areas of life.

Health and Well-being
While the primary purpose of these laws was spiritual, they also had practical health benefits, reminding us that God's commands are for our good.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against eating fat in Leviticus 7:23 reflect the broader theme of holiness in the book of Leviticus?

2. In what ways can the principle of offering our best to God, as symbolized by the fat in sacrifices, be applied in our daily lives today?

3. How do the dietary laws in Leviticus compare to the instructions given to Gentile believers in Acts 15:29, and what does this tell us about the continuity of God's moral law?

4. What are some modern-day practices or habits that might parallel the dietary restrictions given to the Israelites, and how can they help us live distinct lives?

5. How can 1 Corinthians 10:31 guide our understanding of the purpose behind God's dietary laws and their application in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:4
This verse introduces the prohibition against consuming blood, which complements the dietary laws in Leviticus by emphasizing the sanctity of life.

Acts 15:29
In the New Testament, the early church reaffirms certain dietary restrictions for Gentile believers, showing continuity and adaptation of Old Testament laws.

1 Corinthians 10:31
This verse encourages believers to do everything for the glory of God, including their eating habits, which ties back to the purpose of dietary laws in Leviticus.