Leviticus 7:37
This is the law of the burnt offering, the grain offering, the sin offering, the guilt offering, the ordination offering, and the peace offering,
This is the law
The phrase "This is the law" signifies a divine mandate, a set of instructions given by God to the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "law" is "torah," which means instruction or teaching. It underscores the importance of these offerings as not merely ritualistic practices but as divinely ordained acts of worship and obedience. The law serves as a guide for the Israelites to maintain a covenant relationship with God, emphasizing holiness and purity.

of the burnt offering
The "burnt offering" (Hebrew: "olah") is one of the oldest and most significant offerings, symbolizing complete surrender to God. The entire animal was consumed by fire, representing total dedication and atonement for sin. Archaeological findings, such as altars and sacrificial remains, corroborate the practice of burnt offerings in ancient Near Eastern cultures, highlighting its importance in Israelite worship.

the grain offering
The "grain offering" (Hebrew: "minchah") was a tribute to God, often consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. It symbolizes the fruits of human labor and the acknowledgment of God's provision. Historically, grain offerings were a common practice in agrarian societies, reflecting gratitude and dependence on divine sustenance.

the sin offering
The "sin offering" (Hebrew: "chatat") was instituted for atonement of unintentional sins. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for purification. The offering served as a reminder of the holiness of God and the necessity of repentance and forgiveness. Scripturally, it points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who atones for the sins of humanity.

the guilt offering
The "guilt offering" (Hebrew: "asham") was required for specific transgressions, particularly those involving restitution. It emphasizes the need for reconciliation and making amends. This offering teaches the importance of accountability and the restoration of relationships, both with God and with others.

the ordination offering
The "ordination offering" (Hebrew: "millu'im") was part of the consecration of priests. It signifies the setting apart of individuals for holy service. The ordination offering underscores the sacredness of the priestly role and the need for purity and dedication in serving God. Historically, this practice established the priesthood as mediators between God and the people.

and the peace offering
The "peace offering" (Hebrew: "shelem") was a voluntary act of worship, expressing thanksgiving and fellowship with God. It often included a communal meal, symbolizing harmony and communion. The peace offering reflects the joy and gratitude of a reconciled relationship with God, pointing to the ultimate peace found in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai.

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

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God and where these offerings were made.

4. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing the sacrifices and offerings as outlined in the law.

5. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the laws, including the instructions for these offerings.
Teaching Points
Understanding the Purpose of Offerings
Each offering had a specific purpose and significance, teaching us about the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The offerings symbolize the need for atonement and reconciliation with God, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Holiness and Obedience
The detailed instructions for offerings emphasize the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

Community and Worship
The communal aspect of some offerings, like the peace offering, highlights the importance of fellowship and unity in worship.

Spiritual Sacrifices Today
As New Testament believers, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, such as praise, service, and living a holy life.
Bible Study Questions
1. How do the different types of offerings in Leviticus 7:37 reflect various aspects of our relationship with God?

2. In what ways does the sacrificial system in Leviticus point to the work of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament?

3. How can understanding the purpose and symbolism of these offerings enhance our worship and relationship with God today?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer "spiritual sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

5. How does the communal aspect of the peace offering inform our understanding of fellowship and unity within the church community?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 29
Details the ordination of Aaron and his sons, connecting to the ordination offering mentioned in Leviticus 7:37.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the fulfillment of the sacrificial system through Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate sacrifice, connecting to the various offerings listed.

Psalm 51
David's plea for forgiveness, highlighting the importance of a contrite heart over ritual sacrifice, which relates to the sin and guilt offerings.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the concept of offerings in Leviticus.
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
The Gospel of the SacrificesS. Mather.Leviticus 7:37-38
People
Aaron, Israelites, Moses
Places
Sinai, Teman
Topics
Burned, Burnt, Burnt-offering, Cereal, Consecration, Consecration-offering, Consecrations, Fellowship, Giving, Grain, Guilt, Guilt-offering, Law, Laws, Making, Meal, Meal-offering, Meat, Meat-offering, Oblation, Offering, Offerings, Ordination, Peace, Peace-offering, Peace-offerings, Present, Priests, Sacrifice, Sin, Sin-offering, Trespass, Trespass-offering, Wrongdoing
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Leviticus 7:37

     7745   ordination

Leviticus 7:35-37

     5073   Aaron, priest

Leviticus 7:37-38

     4269   Sinai, Mount
     7438   sanctuary

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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