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. It is primarily detailed in the book of Leviticus and serves as an expression of devotion, thanksgiving, and acknowledgment of God's provision.

Biblical Foundation

The instructions for the Grain Offering are found in Leviticus 2:1-16. The offering consists of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. Leviticus 2:1-2 states, "When anyone presents an offering of grain to the LORD, his offering shall be of fine flour. He is to pour olive oil on it, put frankincense on it, and bring it to Aaron’s sons the priests. The priest shall take a handful of the fine flour and oil, together with all the frankincense, and burn this memorial portion on the altar, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD."

Components and Symbolism

1. Fine Flour: The use of fine flour signifies purity and the best of human labor. It represents the fruit of the earth and the work of human hands, offered back to God in gratitude.

2. Olive Oil: Olive oil is a symbol of richness, joy, and the Holy Spirit. Its inclusion in the offering signifies the anointing and presence of God.

3. Frankincense: This aromatic resin, when burned, produces a pleasing aroma, symbolizing prayer and worship ascending to God.

4. Salt: Leviticus 2:13 commands, "You are to season each of your grain offerings with salt. You must 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." Salt represents the covenant between God and His people, symbolizing preservation and purity.

Types of Grain Offerings

The Grain Offering could be presented in various forms, including:

· Uncooked: As fine flour mixed with oil and frankincense.
· Cooked: Baked in an oven, prepared on a griddle, or cooked in a pan, each with specific instructions regarding preparation and presentation (Leviticus 2:4-10).

Purpose and Function

The Grain Offering served multiple purposes:

· Thanksgiving: It was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude for God's provision and sustenance.
· Dedication: It symbolized the dedication of one's labor and life to God.
· Memorial: A portion of the offering was burned on the altar as a "memorial portion," serving as a reminder of God's covenant and faithfulness.

Priestly Portion

While a portion of the Grain Offering was burned on the altar, the remainder was given to the priests as their share. Leviticus 2:3 states, "The rest 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." This provision supported the Levitical priesthood, who had no inheritance of land and relied on the offerings of the people.

Prohibitions

Certain prohibitions were associated with the Grain Offering:

· No Leaven or Honey: Leviticus 2:11 instructs, "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 symbolizing sin and corruption, was excluded to maintain the purity of the offering.

Theological Significance

The Grain Offering underscores the principle of giving back to God from the blessings He has provided. It reflects a heart of gratitude and acknowledges God's sovereignty over creation. In the broader context of the sacrificial system, it complements the burnt offering, which atones for sin, by emphasizing dedication and thanksgiving.

In the New Testament, the principles underlying the Grain Offering find fulfillment in Christ, who is the Bread of Life (John 6:35) and the ultimate provision for humanity's spiritual needs. The offering foreshadows the spiritual nourishment and sustenance found in a relationship with Him.