What role do Aaron's sons play in the sacrificial process in Leviticus 3:5? Verse under Consideration “Aaron’s sons are to burn it on the altar atop the burnt offering that is laid on the burning wood. It is a food offering, an aroma pleasing to the LORD.” (Leviticus 3:5) Setting the Scene • Leviticus 3 outlines the fellowship (peace) offering. • Verses 3–4 specify the choice portions (all the inner fat and the kidneys) to be removed from the animal. • Verse 5 describes what happens to those portions once they reach the altar. Specific Tasks of Aaron’s Sons in 3:5 • Receive the prepared portions from the offerer (cf. Leviticus 3:3–4). • Lay those portions “atop the burnt offering” already burning on the altar; the fellowship offering piggybacks on the continual burnt offering (see Exodus 29:38–42). • Arrange the pieces on the burning wood so the fat is fully consumed—an act reserved for priests alone (Leviticus 7:30–31). • Tend the altar fire, guaranteeing an unbroken flame (Leviticus 6:12–13). • Turn the sacrifice into “an aroma pleasing to the LORD,” ensuring the worshiper’s gift is accepted. Why Their Role Matters • Mediator Function—Only priests may place gifts on God’s altar (Numbers 18:1–4). Aaron’s sons stand between sinner and holy God, foreshadowing the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 10:11–14). • Guarding Holiness—Improper handling brings judgment (Leviticus 10:1–2). Their obedience preserves the sanctity of the sanctuary. • Maintaining Continual Worship—By placing each peace offering “atop the burnt offering,” they weave individual acts of gratitude into Israel’s nonstop worship rhythm (Leviticus 1:7–9; 6:12). • Displaying Total Devotion—Burning the choicest fat declares that the best belongs exclusively to the LORD (Leviticus 3:16–17). Take-Home Reflection Every time Aaron’s sons lifted those fat portions into the flames, they silently preached: access to God requires a mediator, and fellowship with Him is always built on an atoning sacrifice already burning on the altar—truths ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
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