What is the meaning of Leviticus 3:10? Setting within the Peace Offering Leviticus 3 describes the fellowship (peace) offering, an act that celebrates communion between the worshiper, the priesthood, and God. Unlike the burnt offering (Leviticus 1), only select portions are placed on the altar; the rest is shared in a communal meal (Leviticus 7:15). Verses 9-11 specify which internal parts belong exclusively to the LORD, highlighting His holiness and the worshiper’s gratitude (Exodus 29:13; Leviticus 7:30-31). both kidneys • In every animal sacrifice, the kidneys are reserved for the altar (Leviticus 4:9; 7:4). • Located deep within the body, they picture the innermost life of the animal—symbolizing the surrender of the worshiper’s hidden thoughts and motives to God (Psalm 26:2; Jeremiah 17:10). • By literally removing “both kidneys,” the priest shows that nothing internal is withheld from the LORD. with the fat on them near the loins • Fat is repeatedly called “the LORD’s” (Leviticus 3:16-17; 7:25). Its richness represents the best part of the sacrifice (Genesis 45:18; Numbers 18:12). • The fat surrounding the kidneys and loins is especially choice, tucked closest to the backbone. Offering it illustrates giving God prime honor and recognizing His provision (Proverbs 3:9). • The worshiper is reminded that real peace comes from yielding the very best—literally and spiritually—to Him. and the lobe of the liver • The “lobe” (adjacent to the gall) is singled out in every sacrificial animal (Leviticus 4:9; 8:16). • Ancient observers viewed the liver as the seat of emotion and life; offering it shows wholehearted devotion. • Its inclusion with the fat and kidneys underscores that the entire inner being is consecrated to God (Deuteronomy 6:5). which he is to remove with the kidneys • The priest’s careful removal prevents the worshiper from consuming what belongs to God alone (Leviticus 7:23-25). • Placing these parts upon the altar turns them into “a food offering, an aroma pleasing to the LORD” (Leviticus 3:11), assuring the worshiper of accepted fellowship. • The precision prefigures the flawless sacrifice of Christ, whose whole inner being was yielded to the Father (Hebrews 10:5-7; John 4:34). summary Leviticus 3:10 commands the priest to set apart the kidneys, their surrounding fat, and the liver’s lobe for God’s altar. These deep, choice parts picture the worshiper’s inmost life and highest honor given back to the LORD. By literally removing and burning them, the worshiper affirms that true peace with God comes through complete, wholehearted surrender—ultimately fulfilled in the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered every part of Himself to secure our fellowship with the Father. |
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