Leviticus 7:35
This is the portion of the offerings made by fire to the LORD for Aaron and his sons since the day they were presented to serve the LORD as priests.
This is the portion
The phrase "This is the portion" signifies a specific allocation or share designated for a particular purpose. In the Hebrew context, the word "portion" (חֵלֶק, chelek) often denotes an inheritance or a rightful share. This reflects the divine provision and the sacred duty bestowed upon the priestly line. It underscores the idea that God provides for those who serve Him, ensuring that their needs are met through the offerings of the people.

of the offerings for the LORD made by fire
The "offerings for the LORD made by fire" refers to the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. The Hebrew word for offerings, קָרְבָּן (korban), implies something brought near or presented. These offerings were a means of worship and atonement, symbolizing the people's devotion and obedience to God. The fire represents purification and the divine presence, as sacrifices were consumed on the altar, transforming the physical into a spiritual act of worship.

that was allotted to Aaron and his sons
The phrase "that was allotted to Aaron and his sons" highlights the divine appointment and provision for the priestly family. Aaron, the first high priest, and his descendants were chosen by God to serve in the tabernacle, a role that required dedication and holiness. The Hebrew root for "allotted" (נָתַן, natan) means to give or bestow, indicating that this portion was a gift from God, ensuring the priests could focus on their sacred duties without concern for their sustenance.

on the day they were presented
"On the day they were presented" refers to the consecration of Aaron and his sons into the priesthood. This was a significant event, marked by rituals and sacrifices, symbolizing their sanctification and readiness to serve. The Hebrew word for "presented" (מִלּוּא, millu) can also mean to fill or fulfill, suggesting that their presentation was the fulfillment of God's command and the beginning of their lifelong service.

to serve the LORD as priests
The phrase "to serve the LORD as priests" encapsulates the primary role and responsibility of Aaron and his sons. The Hebrew word for "serve" (שָׁרַת, sharath) implies ministering or attending to duties with devotion. As priests, they acted as mediators between God and the people, performing sacrifices, teaching the law, and maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle. This service was not just a duty but a calling, reflecting a life dedicated to worship and obedience to God.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. He was chosen by God to lead the priestly line and serve in the tabernacle.

2. Aaron's Sons
The descendants of Aaron who were also appointed as priests to serve in the tabernacle, continuing the priestly duties.

3. Offerings Made by Fire
These are sacrifices that were burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD, signifying atonement and dedication.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who established the priesthood and the sacrificial system for Israel.

5. Priestly Service
The duties and responsibilities assigned to Aaron and his sons, including offering sacrifices, maintaining the tabernacle, and interceding for the people.
Teaching Points
The Role of the Priesthood
The priesthood was established by God to mediate between Him and the people, highlighting the need for a mediator in spiritual matters.

Provision for God's Servants
God provided for the needs of the priests through the offerings, teaching us about His provision for those who serve Him.

Holiness and Service
The consecration of Aaron and his sons underscores the importance of holiness in service to God, a principle that applies to all believers today.

Christ as Our High Priest
The priestly system foreshadows the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us and provides the perfect sacrifice for sin.

Our Spiritual Service
As believers, we are called to serve God with dedication and holiness, following the example set by the priests in the Old Testament.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the role of Aaron and his sons as priests inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?

2. In what ways does the provision for the priests through offerings reflect God's care for those who serve Him?

3. How can the concept of holiness in the priestly service be applied to our daily lives as Christians?

4. What parallels can we draw between the Old Testament priesthood and the priesthood of all believers as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

5. How does understanding Christ's role as our High Priest enhance our appreciation of His sacrifice and intercession for us?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 29
This chapter details the consecration of Aaron and his sons, providing context for their priestly service and the offerings they were to receive.

Hebrews 5
This New Testament passage discusses the role of the high priest, drawing parallels between Aaron's priesthood and the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 2:9
This verse speaks to the priesthood of all believers, connecting the Old Testament priestly service to the New Testament concept of spiritual service.
Ministerial SupportR.M. Edgar Leviticus 7:1-38
The Service of the OblationJ.A. Macdonald Leviticus 7:28-38
The Wave Breast and the Heave ShoulderR.A. Redford Leviticus 7:28-38
People
Aaron, Israelites, Moses
Places
Sinai, Teman
Topics
Aaron, Act, Allotted, Anointing, Anointing-portion, Consecrated, Fire, Fire-offerings, Holy, Minister, Offerings, Office, Portion, Presented, Priest, Priests, Priest's, Serve, Sons
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Leviticus 7:35

     7160   servants of the Lord

Leviticus 7:35-36

     2230   Messiah, coming of

Leviticus 7:35-37

     5073   Aaron, priest

Library
Leviticus
The emphasis which modern criticism has very properly laid on the prophetic books and the prophetic element generally in the Old Testament, has had the effect of somewhat diverting popular attention from the priestly contributions to the literature and religion of Israel. From this neglect Leviticus has suffered most. Yet for many reasons it is worthy of close attention; it is the deliberate expression of the priestly mind of Israel at its best, and it thus forms a welcome foil to the unattractive
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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