The Fellowship Offering, also known as the Peace Offering, is a significant aspect of the sacrificial system outlined in the Old Testament, particularly within the Levitical laws. This offering is distinct in its purpose and practice, serving as a means for the Israelites to express thanksgiving, fulfill vows, or make freewill offerings to God. The regulations for the Fellowship Offering are primarily found in the book of Leviticus.

Scriptural Basis:

The primary scriptural references for the Fellowship Offering are found in Leviticus 3 and Leviticus 7. These passages provide detailed instructions on how the offering is to be conducted, the portions allocated to the priests, and the conditions under which the offering is acceptable.

Purpose and Significance:

The Fellowship Offering is unique in that it emphasizes communal participation and celebration. Unlike other offerings that are entirely consumed on the altar or by the priests, the Fellowship Offering allows the offerer, the priests, and God to share in the sacrificial meal. This sharing symbolizes peace and fellowship between the offerer and God, as well as among the community of believers.

Regulations:

1. Types of Animals: The offering could be made from cattle, sheep, or goats, either male or female, but they must be without blemish (Leviticus 3:1, 6, 12). This requirement underscores the importance of offering the best to God, reflecting His holiness and the worshiper's reverence.

2. Laying on of Hands: The offerer is to lay his hand on the head of the offering, signifying identification with the sacrifice and the transfer of sin or thanksgiving (Leviticus 3:2, 8, 13).

3. Blood and Fat: The blood of the animal is to be sprinkled around the altar, and the fat, kidneys, and the lobe of the liver are to be burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD (Leviticus 3:3-5, 9-11, 14-16). The burning of fat symbolizes the offering of the best parts to God.

4. Consumption: The meat of the Fellowship Offering is to be consumed in a specific manner. If the offering is a thanksgiving offering, it must be eaten on the same day it is offered, with none left until morning (Leviticus 7:15). If it is a vow or freewill offering, it may be eaten on the day of the offering and the next day, but any remaining meat must be burned on the third day (Leviticus 7:16-17).

5. Prohibition of Blood and Fat Consumption: The Israelites are strictly forbidden from consuming blood or fat, as these are reserved for God (Leviticus 3:17). This prohibition is a recurring theme in the dietary laws, emphasizing the sanctity of life and the need for purity.

6. Portions for the Priests: Specific portions of the Fellowship Offering are designated for the priests. The breast and the right thigh are given to the priests as their share (Leviticus 7:31-34). This provision supports the Levitical priesthood, who rely on the offerings for sustenance.

Theological Implications:

The Fellowship Offering reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people. It is an expression of gratitude, commitment, and communal harmony. The shared meal aspect of the offering prefigures the communal aspects of Christian worship, particularly the Lord's Supper, where believers partake in a meal that signifies peace and unity with Christ and one another.

Conclusion:

The regulations for the Fellowship Offering highlight the importance of approaching God with reverence, gratitude, and a spirit of community. Through these offerings, the Israelites were reminded of God's provision, their dependence on Him, and the peace that comes from living in accordance with His will.