In the sacrificial system of ancient Israel, as detailed in the Old Testament, the offering of fat and internal organs held significant ritual and theological importance. These offerings were integral to various types of sacrifices, including burnt offerings, peace offerings, and sin offerings, as prescribed in the Mosaic Law.

Biblical Foundation

The instructions for the offering of fat and internal organs are primarily found in the book of Leviticus. 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 them, 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."

Symbolism and Significance

The fat and internal organs were considered the choicest parts of the animal, symbolizing the best portion being offered to God. The burning of these parts on the altar was seen as a "pleasing aroma" to the LORD, signifying acceptance and favor. This act of offering the best to God underscored the principle of giving God the first and finest of one's possessions, reflecting a heart of worship and reverence.

Theological Implications

The offering of fat and internal organs also carried theological implications regarding atonement and reconciliation. In the sin offering, for instance, the fat and certain internal organs were burned on the altar, while the rest of the animal was disposed of outside the camp (Leviticus 4:8-12). This ritual highlighted the seriousness of sin and the need for purification and atonement before a holy God.

Prohibitions and Restrictions

The consumption of fat and blood was strictly prohibited for the Israelites. Leviticus 7:23-25 commands, "You are not to eat any of the fat of an ox, a sheep, or a goat. The fat of an animal found dead or torn by wild beasts may be used for any other purpose, but you must not eat it. If anyone eats the fat of an animal from which an offering by fire may be presented to the LORD, the one who eats it must be cut off from his people." This prohibition underscored the sanctity of the offerings and the need to respect what was set apart for God.

Christological Fulfillment

From a Christian perspective, the sacrificial system, including the offering of fat and internal organs, is seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:1-10 explains that the law was a shadow of the good things to come, with Christ offering Himself once for all as the perfect sacrifice. In this light, the offerings of the Old Testament find their fulfillment in the atoning work of Christ, who offered Himself wholly to God on behalf of humanity.

Conclusion

The offering of fat and internal organs in the Old Testament sacrificial system was a profound expression of worship, atonement, and dedication to God. It served as a constant reminder of the holiness of God and the need for His people to approach Him with reverence and the best of what they had to offer.