Burnt offerings, known in Hebrew as "olah," are one of the oldest and most significant forms of sacrifice in the biblical tradition. The term "olah" means "that which goes up," referring to the smoke that ascends to God as the offering is consumed by fire. This type of offering is detailed extensively in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Leviticus and Numbers.

The primary purpose of the burnt offering was atonement for sin and expression of devotion to God. It symbolized the complete surrender of the worshiper to the Lord, as the entire animal was consumed on the altar. Leviticus 1:3-4 states, "If one's offering is a burnt offering from the herd, he is to offer an unblemished male. He must present it at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, so that he may be accepted by the LORD. He is to lay his hand on the head of the burnt offering, so that it may be accepted on his behalf to make atonement for him."

The burnt offering could be made from cattle, sheep, goats, or birds, depending on the economic status of the individual, allowing everyone the opportunity to participate in this act of worship. The offering was to be without blemish, symbolizing purity and perfection, and was to be offered voluntarily.

The ritual involved the laying on of hands, signifying the transfer of sin from the individual to the animal, followed by the slaughtering of the animal, the sprinkling of its blood on the altar, and the burning of the entire carcass. The aroma of the burnt offering was described as "a pleasing aroma to the LORD" (Leviticus 1:9), indicating divine acceptance.

Burnt offerings were performed daily, both morning and evening, as part of the regular worship in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple (Exodus 29:38-42). They were also offered on special occasions, such as Sabbaths, new moons, and festivals (Numbers 28-29).

Peace Offerings

Peace offerings, or "shelamim" in Hebrew, are another significant category of sacrifices in the Old Testament. These offerings are described in Leviticus 3 and 7 and are characterized by their communal nature, as they were shared between the altar, the priests, and the offerer.

The peace offering was a voluntary act of worship, thanksgiving, or vow fulfillment. Unlike the burnt offering, only a portion of the animal was burned on the altar, specifically the fat and certain internal organs, which were considered the best parts and were given to God. Leviticus 3:3-5 states, "From the peace offering, he is to present an offering made by fire to the LORD: the fat that covers the entrails, all the fat that is on the entrails, both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys. Then Aaron’s sons are to burn it on the altar atop the burnt offering that is on the burning wood, as an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD."

The remainder of the animal was divided between the priests and the offerer, who would share it in a communal meal, symbolizing fellowship with God and among His people. This meal was an expression of gratitude and joy, celebrating the peace and reconciliation achieved through the sacrifice.

Peace offerings could be made from cattle, sheep, or goats, and like burnt offerings, the animals had to be without blemish. There were three main types of peace offerings: thank offerings, vow offerings, and freewill offerings, each with specific regulations and purposes (Leviticus 7:11-21).

The peace offering emphasized the relational aspect of worship, highlighting the covenant relationship between God and His people. It served as a reminder of God's provision and the peace that comes from living in harmony with His will.