How does the phrase "on the altar" in Leviticus 3:5 signify dedication to God? The Immediate Context “Aaron’s sons are to burn it on the altar, on top of the burnt offering that is on the burning wood, as an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD.” The peace offering’s fat portions were not eaten but placed “on the altar,” atop the already-burning burnt offering, so the whole pile was consumed together in flame before the LORD. What “on the altar” Meant in Moses’ Day • Hebrew “מִזְבֵּחַ” (mizbeach) is from a root meaning “to slaughter for sacrifice.” • The altar sat in the court’s center—God’s appointed meeting point with sinners (Exodus 29:42–43). • Anything laid there was no longer at the worshiper’s disposal; it now belonged fully to God (Exodus 29:37: “Whatever touches the altar will be holy”). • Fire on that altar symbolized God’s accepting presence (Leviticus 9:24). Thus, placing a portion “on the altar” declared, “This is exclusively Yours, LORD.” How the Phrase Signals Total Dedication 1. Placement • The offering was lifted from common ground to God’s platform. • Elevation marked a transfer of ownership—earthly to divine. 2. Consumption • Fire reduced the fat to smoke, rising heavenward as “a pleasing aroma” (Leviticus 3:5). • Nothing remained for personal use; every ounce served God’s glory. 3. Union with the Burnt Offering • It sat “on top of the burnt offering.” The entire heap burned as one, picturing complete surrender. • Earlier sacrifices set the precedent; now this peace offering joined them, illustrating fellowship grounded in prior atonement. 4. Visibility • The bronze altar stood in plain sight. Public flame broadcast the dedication to every onlooker (Psalm 66:13–15). Supporting Scripture • Genesis 22:9—Abraham “bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar.” Ultimate dedication. • 1 Kings 18:38—Fire from heaven “consumed the burnt offering… and the dust,” confirming God’s approval. • Romans 12:1—“Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” The altar principle continues in daily life. • Hebrews 13:10—“We have an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle have no right to eat.” The cross is now the place of final dedication. Living the Altar Principle Today • Set apart the first and best—time, resources, talents—placing them figuratively “on the altar.” • Accept that what touches God’s altar is irrevocably His; hold nothing back. • Let His holy fire consume self-interest, transforming offerings into a “pleasing aroma” (2 Corinthians 2:15). • Remember that fellowship (peace) with God flows from wholehearted consecration, just as the peace offering followed the burnt offering. By noticing the simple phrase “on the altar,” we see Scripture’s clear call to total, visible, irreversible dedication of all we are and have to the Lord. |
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