Leviticus 7:32

And you are to give the right thigh to the priest as a contribution from your peace offering.

Study Bible

And you are to give
This phrase indicates a commandment, a directive from God to the Israelites. The Hebrew root word for "give" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to bestow or grant. This act of giving is not merely a transaction but a sacred duty, reflecting the Israelites' obedience and reverence towards God. It underscores the principle of offering back to God a portion of what He has provided, acknowledging His sovereignty and provision.

the right thigh
The "right thigh" is significant in the context of ancient Israelite sacrificial practices. The Hebrew term for "thigh" is "שׁוֹק" (shoq), which refers to the leg or the upper part of the leg. The right side was traditionally considered the side of strength and favor. By designating the right thigh, God was instructing the Israelites to offer a portion of value and significance, symbolizing strength and honor, to the priesthood.

to the priest
The priest, or "כֹּהֵן" (kohen) in Hebrew, served as a mediator between God and the people. This role was divinely appointed, and the priests were responsible for performing the sacrifices and maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle. By giving the right thigh to the priest, the Israelites were supporting the priestly ministry, ensuring that those who served God full-time were provided for, thus maintaining the spiritual health of the community.

as a contribution
The word "contribution" comes from the Hebrew "תְּרוּמָה" (terumah), which means an offering or a gift. This was not just any gift but a sacred portion set apart for God’s service. The act of contributing was an expression of gratitude and worship, acknowledging God’s blessings and the role of the priesthood in facilitating the people's relationship with God.

from your peace offering
The "peace offering," or "שֶׁלֶם" (shelem) in Hebrew, was a type of sacrifice that symbolized fellowship and communion with God. It was an offering of thanksgiving, often shared between the altar, the priests, and the offerer. By giving a portion of the peace offering to the priest, the Israelites were participating in a communal act of worship, celebrating the peace and reconciliation they had with God. This offering was a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, emphasizing harmony, gratitude, and shared blessings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were set apart to serve in the tabernacle and later the temple, performing sacrifices and rituals on behalf of the people.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were given the Law through Moses, including instructions for offerings and sacrifices.

3. Peace Offerings
A type of sacrifice in the Levitical system that symbolized fellowship and thanksgiving to God, often shared between the offerer, the priests, and God.

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

5. Right Thigh
A specific portion of the peace offering designated for the priests, symbolizing their share in the communal meal and their service to God.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of the right thigh to the priests underscores God's provision for those who serve Him. Just as the priests were sustained by the offerings, those who dedicate their lives to ministry today are worthy of support.

Symbolism of Fellowship
The peace offering, shared among the offerer, the priest, and God, symbolizes a communal fellowship. This reflects the importance of community and shared worship in the life of believers.

Respect for Sacred Practices
The specific instructions for offerings remind us of the importance of respecting and adhering to God's commands. This respect extends to our modern worship practices and the reverence we show in our relationship with God.

Generosity and Gratitude
The peace offering was an expression of gratitude and thanksgiving. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a heart of generosity and thankfulness, recognizing God's blessings and sharing them with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision of the right thigh to the priests reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can we apply this principle in supporting our church leaders today?

2. In what ways does the peace offering symbolize fellowship with God and others, and how can we foster a sense of community in our own faith practices?

3. What lessons can we learn from the specific instructions given for offerings in Leviticus about the importance of obedience and reverence in our worship?

4. How does the concept of sharing in the peace offering encourage us to be generous and thankful in our daily lives?

5. How can the principles of priestly provision and communal fellowship in Leviticus 7:32 be seen in the New Testament teachings about the church and its leaders?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Details the consecration of the priests and the portions of sacrifices they are to receive, establishing the precedent for priestly portions.

1 Samuel 2
Highlights the abuse of priestly privileges by Eli's sons, contrasting the proper handling of offerings as outlined in Leviticus.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood of Jesus, drawing parallels between the Levitical priesthood and the eternal priesthood of Christ.

1 Corinthians 9
Paul discusses the rights of those who preach the gospel to receive material support, drawing a parallel to the support of the Levitical priests.