Why is the "fat of the liver" significant in Leviticus 4:9? Leviticus 4:9 in context • “the two kidneys with the fat that is on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys” • These parts are singled out every time a sin or peace offering is described (Leviticus 3:4, 10, 15; 4:9; 7:4). The priest burns them on the altar while the rest of the carcass has another purpose. What is meant by “the fat of the liver” • Hebrew yōthereth: the fatty lobe or appendage that hangs from the liver and is packed with rich fat. • Ancient Israelites could not miss it when butchering; it was obvious, weighty, and prized. Why God claimed this fat • Leviticus 3:16—“All fat belongs to the LORD.” The choicest, richest part returns to Him. • Fat signifies abundance and prosperity (Deuteronomy 32:15). Giving it back confesses that every good thing comes from God. • Reserved fat was never to be eaten (Leviticus 3:17; 7:23–25). Eating it invited being “cut off,” underscoring its sacred status. What the liver fat communicates in the sin offering • Hidden yet vital. The liver and kidneys represent the unseen inner life (Jeremiah 11:20; Psalm 7:9). Offering them says, “My secret motives and desires belong to You.” • Total removal of sin. The sin offering deals with every part, even what is deep inside, illustrating thorough cleansing. • Sweet aroma of propitiation. Burning fat produced a pleasing smell, picturing God’s satisfaction when sin is confessed and covered (Leviticus 4:31). Foreshadowing Christ • The internal organs prefigure the inward perfection of Jesus offered “unblemished to God” (Hebrews 9:14). • On the cross He yielded not only His body but the entirety of His inner being—every affection, thought, and motive—to accomplish atonement. Lessons for believers today • Give God the best, not the leftovers. Our “fat portions” are time, talents, resources—return them joyfully (Proverbs 3:9). • Offer the inner life, not just outward service. “Surely You desire truth in the inmost being” (Psalm 51:6). • Pursue thorough repentance. Let the Spirit expose and cleanse what is hidden (2 Corinthians 7:1). • Live as a “living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1), echoing the complete surrender symbolized by the liver fat placed on the altar. |
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