Leviticus 7:3

And all the fat from it shall be offered: the fat tail, the fat that covers the entrails,

Study Bible

And all the fat
The Hebrew word for "fat" is "חֵלֶב" (chelev), which refers to the best or choicest part of the animal. In ancient Israelite sacrificial practices, fat was considered the richest part and was reserved for God. This reflects the principle of offering the best to God, a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament. The fat symbolizes abundance and blessing, and its offering signifies the worshiper's acknowledgment of God's provision and sovereignty.

that covers the entrails
The "entrails" refer to the internal organs of the sacrificial animal. In Hebrew, the word is "קֶרֶב" (qereb), which can also mean "inner parts" or "midst." The entrails were seen as the seat of emotions and inner life. By offering the fat covering the entrails, the worshiper symbolically dedicates their innermost being to God. This act of offering signifies a surrender of one's deepest emotions and desires to the divine will.

and all the fat that is on them
This phrase emphasizes the totality of the offering. The repetition of "all the fat" underscores the completeness of the sacrifice. In the context of Levitical law, this total offering of fat signifies a wholehearted devotion to God. It is a reminder that worship is not merely a ritualistic act but a comprehensive dedication of one's life to God. The thoroughness of the offering reflects the call for believers to love God with all their heart, soul, and strength, as echoed in Deuteronomy 6:5.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The priests are responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals as outlined in Leviticus. They act as mediators between God and the people of Israel.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel are the recipients of the laws and instructions given by God through Moses. They are to follow these laws to maintain their covenant relationship with God.

3. Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. It is where sacrifices and offerings are made.

4. Sacrificial System
A divinely instituted system of offerings and sacrifices that serve to atone for sin and express devotion to God.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites and the mediator of God's laws, including the instructions for sacrifices.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The detailed instructions for sacrifices in Leviticus highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands. As believers, we are called to follow God's Word with precision and reverence.

Symbolism of the Fat
In the sacrificial system, the fat represents the best and richest part of the offering. This symbolizes giving our best to God in all aspects of our lives, not just in material offerings but in our time, talents, and devotion.

Holiness and Purity
The sacrificial system underscores the need for holiness and purity in approaching God. As Christians, we are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness, made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

The Role of Sacrifice in Worship
Sacrifices were central to the worship of God in the Old Testament. Today, our worship involves offering our lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of spiritual worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific instruction to offer the fat in Leviticus 7:3 reflect the broader theme of obedience in the book of Leviticus?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of giving our "best" to God in our daily lives, as symbolized by the offering of the fat?

3. How does the sacrificial system in Leviticus point forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and what implications does this have for our understanding of atonement?

4. What can we learn from the role of the priests in the sacrificial system about our own roles as a "royal priesthood" in the New Testament context?

5. How does the concept of holiness in the sacrificial system challenge us to pursue holiness in our personal and communal lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3:9-11
This passage provides further details on the peace offerings and the specific parts of the animal that are to be offered, emphasizing the importance of following God's instructions precisely.

Exodus 29:13
This verse describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, highlighting the role of the fat in sacrificial offerings as a pleasing aroma to the Lord.

Hebrews 10:1-10
This New Testament passage discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrificial system and points to Christ as the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the law.