Leviticus 7:4

both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which is to be removed with the kidneys.

Study Bible

the two kidneys
In the Hebrew text, the word for "kidneys" is "כְּלָיוֹת" (kelayot). The kidneys were considered the seat of emotion and thought in ancient Hebrew culture, much like the heart is viewed today. In the sacrificial system, the kidneys represented the innermost being of a person, symbolizing the need for purity and sincerity in worship. Offering the kidneys to God was a way of dedicating one's deepest thoughts and emotions to Him, acknowledging His sovereignty over the most intimate aspects of life.

with the fat that is on them
The Hebrew word for "fat" is "חֵלֶב" (chelev), which refers to the best or choicest part of the animal. In the sacrificial context, fat was considered the richest part and was reserved for God alone, symbolizing the offering of the best we have to the Lord. This act of giving the choicest portions to God reflects the principle of honoring Him with our firstfruits and the best of our resources, as a demonstration of trust and reverence.

at the loins
The term "loins" in Hebrew is "כְּסָלִים" (kesalim), which refers to the area of the body associated with strength and procreation. In the context of the sacrificial system, this part of the animal signifies the strength and vitality that God provides. By offering this part, the Israelites acknowledged that their strength and ability to produce and sustain life came from God, and they were dedicating it back to Him in gratitude and dependence.

and the lobe of the liver
The "lobe of the liver" in Hebrew is "יֹתֶרֶת הַכָּבֵד" (yoteret ha-kaved). The liver was seen as a vital organ, essential for life and health. In the sacrificial rites, the removal and offering of the liver lobe symbolized the surrender of one's life and health to God. It was an acknowledgment that life itself is a gift from the Creator, and thus, it should be lived in accordance with His will and purpose.

which he shall remove with the kidneys
The act of removing these parts together signifies a comprehensive offering of one's inner being and life force to God. The priest's role in this process highlights the need for mediation and the importance of approaching God with reverence and obedience. This removal and offering underscore the necessity of holiness and the complete dedication of oneself to God, as the Israelites sought to live in covenant relationship with Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Aaron and His Sons
- The priests who were given specific instructions on how to perform sacrifices and offerings.

3. Israelites
- The chosen people of God who were given the laws to follow as part of their covenant with Him.

4. Tabernacle
- The portable dwelling place for the divine presence of God among the Israelites.

5. Peace Offering
- A type of sacrifice made to God, symbolizing fellowship and thanksgiving.

Teaching Points

Understanding Sacrificial Details
Leviticus 7:4 emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions precisely. This teaches us the value of obedience and reverence in our worship practices.

Symbolism of the Sacrifice
The fat and kidneys, mentioned in this verse, symbolize the best and innermost parts of the offering. This can be applied to giving God our best in all aspects of life.

Role of the Priests
The priests' role in handling the sacrifices points to the importance of spiritual leadership and accountability in the church today.

Holiness and Purity
The detailed instructions for sacrifices highlight God's holiness and the need for purity in approaching Him, reminding us of the call to live holy lives.

Christ as the Ultimate Sacrifice
Reflecting on the sacrificial system helps us appreciate Christ's ultimate sacrifice, which fulfilled and surpassed the Old Testament offerings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific instruction in Leviticus 7:4 about the fat and kidneys relate to the concept of giving God our best today?

2. In what ways can the role of the priests in the sacrificial system inform our understanding of spiritual leadership in the church?

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

4. What lessons can we learn from the detailed instructions for sacrifices about the nature of obedience and worship?

5. How can we apply the principles of holiness and purity, as seen in the sacrificial system, to our daily lives as Christians?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
This chapter provides detailed instructions on the peace offerings, which are further elaborated in Leviticus 7.

Exodus 29
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, connecting to their role in performing sacrifices.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the sacrificial system and its fulfillment in Christ, providing a New Testament perspective on Old Testament sacrifices.

1 Samuel 2
The account of Eli’s sons, who abused the sacrificial system, serves as a warning against improper handling of offerings.

Romans 12
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system.