What is the meaning of Leviticus 10:15? They are to bring - The verse begins with intentional action. The priests are not to wait passively; they “bring” the designated portions themselves, demonstrating obedience and personal involvement (cf. Exodus 29:27–28; Numbers 18:8). - This immediate obedience models how worship is never accidental but a purposeful response to divine instruction (Romans 12:1). the thigh of the contribution - The “thigh” (or right thigh) is designated in other passages as the choicest part reserved for the priestly family (Leviticus 7:32–34). - By setting aside the thigh, God visibly supports those who serve at the altar (1 Corinthians 9:13–14). - It underscores the Lord’s concern that His servants lack nothing while ministering on behalf of the people (Deuteronomy 18:1–5). the breast of the wave offering - The breast, waved before the LORD, symbolizes devotion given back to God yet graciously returned for priestly sustenance (Exodus 29:26). - This back-and-forth gesture highlights fellowship: the worshiper, priest, and God are united in the sacrifice (Hebrews 13:15–16). - Together with the thigh, it presents a balanced provision—strength (thigh) and affection (breast) devoted to God’s servants. together with the fat portions - The fat represents richness and the best part, always burned on the altar for God alone (Leviticus 3:16–17). - Mentioning the fat clarifies that while priests receive meat, the “best” portion ascends in smoke to the LORD, keeping the priority on God’s honor (1 Samuel 2:16–17 contrasts wrong practice). - It reminds us that even our provision must never rob God of what is uniquely His (Proverbs 3:9). to wave as a wave offering before the LORD - The wave motion (likely lifted toward heaven and back) visibly acknowledges God as the true recipient before any human benefit (Numbers 6:20). - Worship is first vertical—toward the LORD—before it becomes horizontal—shared with His servants (Colossians 3:17). - This order guards the heart from treating offerings as mere payment and keeps gratitude central. It will belong permanently to you and your children - God institutes an enduring statute, not a temporary perk, emphasizing His ongoing care for the priesthood (Numbers 18:11). - “Permanently” reassures priests across generations of their livelihood, freeing them to focus on spiritual duties (Joshua 13:33). - For believers today, it illustrates the principle that “the worker is worthy of his wages” (1 Timothy 5:17–18). as the LORD has commanded - The closing phrase grounds everything in divine command, not human tradition (Deuteronomy 12:32). - It affirms the sufficiency and authority of Scripture for worship practice (2 Timothy 3:16–17). - Obedience here safeguards holiness; Nadab and Abihu’s earlier disobedience (Leviticus 10:1–2) stands as a sober backdrop. summary Leviticus 10:15 shows God’s careful design for worship: specific portions are brought, waved, and assigned so that He is honored first and His servants are cared for continually. Each element—the thigh, breast, and fat—teaches balanced devotion: best to God, sustenance to His ministers, and visible acknowledgment that everything originates from the LORD’s command. The verse assures us that faithful obedience to God’s Word leads to both proper worship and provision for those who serve Him. |
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