The Peace Offering, also known as the Fellowship Offering, is a significant sacrificial practice detailed in the Old Testament, primarily within the book of Leviticus. It is one of the five major offerings described in the Mosaic Law, alongside the Burnt Offering, Grain Offering, Sin Offering, and Guilt Offering. The Peace Offering holds a unique place in the sacrificial system as it emphasizes communion and fellowship between the worshiper, the priesthood, and God.

Biblical Foundation

The instructions for the Peace Offering are primarily found in Leviticus 3 and Leviticus 7. The offering could be made from cattle, sheep, or goats, and it was to be without blemish, symbolizing purity and perfection. The offering was divided into three main parts: the fat and certain internal organs were burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the Lord, the breast and right thigh were given to the priests, and the remaining meat was consumed by the offerer and their family in a communal meal.

Leviticus 3:1-5 states: "If someone’s offering is a peace offering and he offers an animal from the herd, whether male or female, he must present it without blemish before the LORD. He is to lay his hand on the head of his offering and slaughter it at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. Then Aaron’s sons the priests shall sprinkle the blood on all sides of the altar. From the peace offering he is to bring an offering made by fire to the LORD: the fat that covers the entrails, all the fat that is on them, the kidneys with the fat on them, 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."

Purpose and Significance

The Peace Offering served multiple purposes. It was an expression of thanksgiving, a fulfillment of a vow, or a freewill offering. It symbolized peace and reconciliation with God, celebrating the covenant relationship between the Israelites and the Lord. The communal aspect of the meal highlighted the fellowship not only with God but also among the community of believers.

The offering was a voluntary act of worship, reflecting the worshiper's gratitude and desire for fellowship with God. It was a time of joy and celebration, acknowledging God's provision and blessings. The shared meal was a tangible expression of peace and unity, reinforcing the communal bonds among the Israelites.

Theological Implications

The Peace Offering foreshadows the ultimate peace and reconciliation brought through Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Christ is seen as the fulfillment of the sacrificial system, including the Peace Offering. Through His sacrifice, believers are granted peace with God, as stated in Romans 5:1 : "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."

The communal meal aspect of the Peace Offering can also be seen as a precursor to the Lord's Supper, where believers partake in communion, remembering Christ's sacrifice and celebrating the peace and fellowship it brings.

Practical Observance

In ancient Israel, the Peace Offering was a regular part of worship and community life. It was a time for families to come together, share a meal, and rejoice in the presence of God. The offering was a reminder of God's faithfulness and the peace that comes from living in accordance with His will.

Today, while the sacrificial system is no longer practiced, the principles of thanksgiving, fellowship, and peace with God continue to be central to Christian worship and community life. The Peace Offering serves as a historical and theological foundation for understanding the depth of relationship God desires with His people.