The Grain Offering, also known as the "meal offering" or "cereal offering," is a significant component of the sacrificial system outlined in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Leviticus. This offering is distinct from animal sacrifices and serves as an expression of devotion, thanksgiving, and acknowledgment of God's provision.

Biblical Foundation

The primary instructions for the Grain Offering are found in Leviticus 2 and Leviticus 6:14-23. The offering is presented as a gift to the LORD, symbolizing the fruits of human labor and the acknowledgment of God's sustenance.

Components and Preparation

The Grain Offering consists of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. Leviticus 2:1 states, "When anyone presents an offering of grain to the LORD, his offering shall consist of fine flour. He is to pour olive oil on it, put frankincense on it." The use of fine flour signifies purity and quality, while oil represents the Holy Spirit, and frankincense symbolizes prayer and worship.

The offering could be presented in various forms: uncooked, baked, or fried. Each form had specific instructions regarding preparation and presentation. For instance, baked offerings could be made in an oven, on a griddle, or in a pan, as detailed in Leviticus 2:4-7.

Salt and Leaven

A critical regulation concerning the Grain Offering is the prohibition of leaven and honey, as stated in Leviticus 2:11 : "No grain offering that you present to the LORD shall be made with leaven, for you are not to burn any leaven or honey as an offering made by fire to the LORD." Leaven, often associated with sin and corruption, was excluded to maintain the offering's purity. Conversely, salt was required in every offering, symbolizing the covenant between God and His people. Leviticus 2:13 instructs, "You must season all your grain offerings with salt. You shall not leave the salt of the covenant of your God out of your grain offering. You are to add salt to each of your offerings."

Portion for the Priests

A portion of the Grain Offering was burned on the altar as a memorial portion, while the remainder was given to the priests as their share. Leviticus 2:9-10 explains, "The priest is to remove the memorial portion from the grain offering and burn it on the altar as an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. But the remainder of the grain offering belongs to Aaron and his sons; it is a most holy part of the offerings made by fire to the LORD."

Spiritual Significance

The Grain Offering holds deep spiritual significance, representing the worshiper's dedication and gratitude to God. It acknowledges God's provision and sustenance, emphasizing the believer's reliance on Him. The offering also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is the "bread of life" (John 6:35), fulfilling the spiritual nourishment symbolized by the Grain Offering.

New Testament Reflection

While the New Testament does not prescribe the continuation of the Grain Offering, its principles are reflected in the believer's call to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). The Grain Offering's emphasis on purity, dedication, and thanksgiving continues to inspire Christian worship and devotion.