Why is the "fat" repeatedly emphasized in Leviticus 3:4 and other offerings? The Text under the Microscope “Then from the sacrifice of the fellowship offering he shall present an offering made by fire to the LORD —the fat that covers the entrails and all the fat that is on the entrails, both kidneys with the fat on them by the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he will remove with the kidneys.” (Leviticus 3:3-4) What “Fat” Signifies in Scripture • The richest, choicest part of the animal (Genesis 45:18; Deuteronomy 32:14) • A symbol of abundance and blessing (Psalm 36:8) • A reminder that every good and perfect gift belongs first to the LORD (James 1:17) Why the Fat Belonged Exclusively to God • Divine prerogative: “All the fat belongs to the LORD.” (Leviticus 3:16) • Visible surrender of the best portion—Israel tangibly gave up what was prized. • A safeguard against idolatrous feasting on sacrificial meat; the best was not for self. • An aroma “pleasing to the LORD” (Leviticus 3:5) prefiguring wholehearted devotion. Holiness and Separation • Fat burned on the altar created a barrier between sacred and common use. • Like the firstfruits (Exodus 23:19), it set a pattern: the premier portion is consecrated. • By forbidding Israel to eat fat (Leviticus 7:22-25), God taught reverent distinction between holy and ordinary. Echoes Across the Offerings • Burnt Offering (Leviticus 1:8-9): entire animal—including fat—was consumed, picturing total surrender. • Sin Offering (Leviticus 4:8-10): fat removed and burned, signifying that the atonement God provides is His alone. • Peace/Fellowship Offering (Leviticus 3): worshiper ate meat, but fat reserved for God, illustrating shared fellowship without blurring Creator-creature roles. Foreshadowing Christ’s Sacrifice • Jesus offered Himself wholly, the choicest “fat” of humanity without blemish (Hebrews 10:12-14). • At the cross God received the perfect, fragrant offering (Ephesians 5:2). Implications for Believers Today • Honor God with the best—time, resources, affections—before any personal enjoyment (Proverbs 3:9). • Reject self-indulgence; keep clear lines between worship and appetite (Romans 12:1). • Rest in the sufficiency of Christ’s once-for-all “fat” offering, drawing near in confident fellowship (Hebrews 4:16). |
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