Leviticus 7:5

The priest shall burn them on the altar as an offering made by fire to the LORD; it is a guilt offering.

Study Bible

The priest
In the ancient Israelite context, the priest held a significant role as a mediator between God and the people. The Hebrew word for priest, "kohen," signifies one who is set apart for sacred duties. The priest's role was not only to perform rituals but also to teach the law and guide the community in spiritual matters. This highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and the responsibility of those who serve in ministry to act as intermediaries, bringing the concerns of the people before God and conveying God's will to the people.

shall burn them
The act of burning in sacrificial rituals symbolizes complete dedication and surrender to God. The Hebrew word "qatar" is used here, which means to make smoke or to offer incense. This act of burning signifies the transformation of the physical into the spiritual, as the offering ascends to God in the form of smoke. It is a reminder of the need for believers to offer themselves wholly to God, allowing their lives to be transformed and purified by His presence.

on the altar
The altar, or "mizbeach" in Hebrew, was a sacred place where sacrifices were made. It served as a physical representation of God's presence and a focal point for worship. The altar was a place of atonement, where the relationship between God and humanity was restored. In a broader sense, it symbolizes the need for a dedicated space in our lives where we can meet with God, offer our sacrifices of praise, and seek reconciliation with Him.

as an offering made by fire
The phrase "offering made by fire" emphasizes the element of divine acceptance. The Hebrew term "isheh" refers to a fire offering, which was a pleasing aroma to the Lord. This signifies that the offering, when made with a sincere heart, is acceptable and pleasing to God. It serves as a reminder that our worship and sacrifices should be genuine and heartfelt, aiming to please God rather than fulfill mere ritualistic obligations.

to the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capital letters indicates the translation of the divine name "YHWH," the covenant name of God. This highlights the personal and relational aspect of God, who desires a covenant relationship with His people. The offerings were not just religious duties but acts of devotion to a personal God who is intimately involved in the lives of His people. It calls believers to recognize the personal nature of their relationship with God and to approach Him with reverence and love.

It is a guilt offering
The "guilt offering," or "asham" in Hebrew, was a specific type of sacrifice for atonement of unintentional sins or sins requiring restitution. It underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. This offering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who became the perfect guilt offering for humanity's sins. It serves as a powerful reminder of the grace and forgiveness available through Christ, encouraging believers to live in the freedom and redemption He provides.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest is a mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals as prescribed in the Law of Moses.

2. Altar
A sacred place where offerings and sacrifices are made to God. It symbolizes the presence of God and the place of atonement.

3. Offering Made by Fire
This refers to the sacrificial system where offerings are burned as a pleasing aroma to the LORD, signifying purification and atonement.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who established the sacrificial system as a means for His people to maintain a right relationship with Him.

5. Guilt Offering
A specific type of offering in the Levitical system designed to atone for unintentional sins that required restitution.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest's role as a mediator foreshadows Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who intercedes on our behalf.

Significance of the Altar
The altar represents a place of sacrifice and surrender. In our lives, we are called to present ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

Understanding the Guilt Offering
The guilt offering emphasizes the need for restitution and reconciliation. In our relationships, we should seek to make amends and restore what has been broken.

The Holiness of God
The sacrificial system highlights God's holiness and the seriousness of sin. We are reminded to approach God with reverence and humility.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system, offering Himself once for all. Our faith in Him brings complete atonement and reconciliation with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 7:5 point to the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of the altar in our daily spiritual practices?

3. What lessons can we learn from the guilt offering about making restitution in our personal relationships?

4. How does understanding the holiness of God as depicted in Leviticus influence our approach to worship and prayer?

5. How does the sacrificial system in Leviticus enhance our appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4-5
These chapters provide detailed instructions on various offerings, including the sin and guilt offerings, highlighting the importance of atonement and restitution.

Hebrews 9:22
This verse underscores the necessity of blood for the forgiveness of sins, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

Isaiah 53:10
This prophecy speaks of the suffering servant, whose life is an offering for sin, prefiguring Christ's atoning work.