What is the meaning of Leviticus 3:2? He is to lay his hand on the head of the offering When the worshiper places his hand on the animal, it is far more than a ritual gesture. Scripture uses this act to show: • Identification: The worshiper personally identifies with the sacrifice (Leviticus 1:4; 4:4). • Transfer: Guilt is symbolically transferred, foreshadowing the truth that “the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:6). • Assurance: By touching the animal, the person knows the offering is accepted, much like believers are assured that Christ “became sin for us” (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Participation, not spectatorship: The worshiper is actively involved, reminding us that salvation is never detached or impersonal. …and slaughter it at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting The designated location teaches several lessons: • God sets the terms for worship (Exodus 29:11; Deuteronomy 12:5–6). • Sacrifice must occur where God’s presence dwells; today, that presence is fully opened to us through the torn veil (Hebrews 10:19–22). • The public setting underscores accountability—sin is serious and its cost is visible. • The shedding of blood shows that “the life of the flesh is in the blood” (Leviticus 17:11), pointing to the life-for-life exchange fulfilled at Calvary. Then Aaron’s sons the priests shall splatter the blood on all sides of the altar The priests complete what the worshiper begins, illustrating cooperation between God’s appointed mediators and the people. Notice: • Blood is applied to every side—no corner of the altar is left untouched (Leviticus 1:5; 4:15). • The act portrays cleansing and consecration, echoed when Moses “took the blood and sprinkled it on the people” (Exodus 24:8). • Hebrews 9:22 reminds us that “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness,” and 1 John 1:7 points to Christ’s blood that “purifies us from all sin.” • The splattering foreshadows the once-for-all efficacy of Jesus’ blood, which does not merely cover sin but removes it. summary Leviticus 3:2 paints a vivid picture of substitution, sacred space, and saving blood. The worshiper lays a hand on the animal, personally owning the need for atonement; the animal is slain where God meets His people, underscoring ordered, reverent worship; and the priests apply the blood, proclaiming cleansing that ultimately finds its perfection in Christ. Taken together, the verse invites believers today to trust the finished work of the greater sacrifice, rejoice in access to God’s presence, and celebrate the peace secured through the blood of the Lamb. |
    |