Leviticus 7:6

Every male among the priests may eat of it. It must be eaten in a holy place; it is most holy.

Study Bible

Every male among the priests
This phrase underscores the specific designation of the priestly class in ancient Israel. The Hebrew word for "priests" is "kohen," which refers to those set apart for sacred duties. Historically, the priesthood was limited to the male descendants of Aaron, Moses' brother, emphasizing a hereditary and patriarchal system. This exclusivity highlights the importance of maintaining purity and holiness within the priestly line, as they were mediators between God and the people. The role of the priest was not just a position but a calling to serve in the presence of God, reflecting the divine order and structure established by God for worship and sacrifice.

may eat it
The act of eating the sacrificial offering signifies participation in the sacred rites and the sustenance provided by God. In Hebrew culture, sharing a meal was a sign of fellowship and covenant. For the priests, consuming the offering was both a privilege and a responsibility, symbolizing their partaking in the holiness of the sacrifice. This consumption was not merely physical nourishment but a spiritual act, reinforcing their consecration and dedication to God's service. It also served as a reminder of God's provision and the sustenance He provides for those who serve Him.

It must be eaten in a holy place
The requirement for the offering to be consumed in a "holy place" emphasizes the sanctity of the act. The Hebrew term for "holy" is "qodesh," meaning set apart or sacred. The holy place, likely the tabernacle or later the temple, was where God's presence dwelled among His people. Eating the offering in this designated area ensured that the act remained within the bounds of sacred space, free from defilement. This stipulation reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness, where God calls His people to be set apart and to honor Him in all aspects of life, particularly in worship.

it is most holy
The phrase "most holy" (Hebrew: "qodesh qodashim") indicates the highest level of sanctity. This designation was reserved for offerings that were entirely dedicated to God, underscoring their significance and the reverence required in handling them. The "most holy" status of the offering highlights the seriousness with which God views worship and the offerings made to Him. It serves as a reminder of God's holiness and the need for His people to approach Him with awe and respect. This concept of holiness is central to the book of Leviticus and the entire biblical narrative, calling believers to live lives that reflect God's holy nature.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, chosen by God to perform the sacred duties in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. They were responsible for offering sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the worship practices.

2. Holy Place
This refers to the designated area within the Tabernacle (and later the Temple) where sacred activities were conducted. It was a space set apart for worship and the presence of God.

3. Sacrificial Offerings
The context of this verse is the consumption of certain portions of the sacrificial offerings, specifically those deemed "most holy," which were reserved for the priests.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Service
The requirement for the priests to eat in a holy place underscores the importance of maintaining holiness in our service to God. As believers, we are called to live lives set apart for His purposes.

Priestly Privileges and Responsibilities
Just as the priests had the privilege of partaking in the offerings, they also bore the responsibility of maintaining the sanctity of their service. Believers today share in the blessings of Christ but are also called to uphold His standards.

Sacred Consumption
The act of eating the offering in a holy place symbolizes the internalization of God's provision and grace. We are reminded to spiritually "consume" and internalize God's Word and His promises.

Community and Worship
The communal aspect of the priestly duties highlights the importance of community in worship. As a body of believers, we are to support and uphold one another in our spiritual walk.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Old Testament priesthood inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our "holy places"—whether physical or spiritual—are maintained in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of holiness in Leviticus 7:6 apply to our personal and communal worship practices?

4. What parallels can we draw between the privileges of the priests in Leviticus and the spiritual blessings we receive as believers in Christ?

5. How can we, as a "royal priesthood," practically live out our calling in our communities and workplaces?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter outlines the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, establishing the precedent for their role and privileges, including the consumption of certain offerings.

1 Peter 2:9
This New Testament passage speaks of believers as a "royal priesthood," drawing a parallel between the Old Testament priesthood and the spiritual role of Christians today.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the role of Christ as the ultimate High Priest, fulfilling and surpassing the Old Testament sacrificial system.