What is the meaning of Leviticus 3:5? Aaron’s Sons - The priests were Aaron’s direct descendants, divinely appointed to handle every sacrifice (Exodus 28:1; Hebrews 5:1). - God’s instruction “Then Aaron’s sons” shows that sacred service is inherited, orderly, and not open to personal invention. - Through Christ we now share a priestly calling (1 Peter 2:9), yet the original command stands as factual history that reveals God’s careful structure for worship. Burn It on the Altar - “Are to burn it on the altar” underscores that real fire consumed a real animal, visibly portraying surrender to God (Leviticus 1:7-9). - The altar itself, first erected in the wilderness (Exodus 27:1-8), was the meeting place of sin and substitution—foreshadowing the cross (Hebrews 13:10-12). - Because the priests obeyed exactly, Israel could enjoy confident access to God (Leviticus 9:23-24). Atop the Burnt Offering - The peace offering’s fat portions were placed “atop the burnt offering,” meaning over an already blazing sacrifice (Leviticus 6:12-13). - Layering one offering on another signified completeness: fellowship (peace offering) rests on atonement (burnt offering). - This sequence looks ahead to Christ, whose once-for-all sacrifice secures both our forgiveness and ongoing communion (Ephesians 2:13-18). On the Burning Wood - The text notes “that is on the burning wood,” reminding us that live embers had to be kept continually lit (Leviticus 6:12). - Wood was stacked methodically (Leviticus 1:7; 1 Kings 18:33) so nothing hindered the fire. - Practically, this calls believers to keep zeal for God alive, never letting devotion grow cold (Romans 12:11). As a Food Offering - “As a food offering” (literally, “bread” to the Lord) teaches that, although God has no physical need, He delights in the gift (Leviticus 2:2; Numbers 28:2). - The sacrificed fat—considered the best part—symbolizes offering our finest to God, not leftovers (Proverbs 3:9-10). - For worshipers, sharing portions of the peace offering meal affirmed fellowship with God and one another (Leviticus 7:15). A Pleasing Aroma to the LORD - Scripture repeatedly states that such offerings rise as “a pleasing aroma” (Genesis 8:21; Exodus 29:18). - The phrase assures us that God truly found delight in obedient sacrifice; it was not empty ritual. - Ultimately, Christ “gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:2), fulfilling every sweet aroma and securing everlasting favor (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). Summary Leviticus 3:5 records a literal, orderly act of worship in which Aaron’s sons placed the peace offering’s fat upon the ever-burning altar fire, over the ongoing burnt sacrifice. This layered, flame-consumed gift functioned as God’s own “food,” sending up a fragrance that pleased Him. Each detail—priestly service, continual fire, richest portions offered—points ahead to Jesus’ complete, fragrant sacrifice and invites us to offer our best devotion with confidence that it delights the Lord. |
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