Then the LORD called to Moses
This phrase indicates a direct communication from God to Moses, emphasizing the divine origin of the instructions that follow. The LORD, represented by the tetragrammaton YHWH, is the covenant name of God, highlighting His personal relationship with Israel. Moses, as the leader and mediator of the Israelites, is often the recipient of God's commands. This calling signifies the continuation of the divine guidance that began in Exodus, where Moses was chosen to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The calling of Moses also prefigures the role of Christ as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity, as seen in 1 Timothy 2:5.

and spoke to him
This phrase underscores the verbal communication between God and Moses, a common method of divine revelation in the Old Testament. The act of speaking indicates clarity and authority, ensuring that Moses receives precise instructions. This communication is foundational for the laws and rituals that will be established in Leviticus. It reflects the intimate relationship between God and His chosen leaders, similar to how God spoke to the prophets. In the New Testament, Jesus is described as the Word made flesh (John 1:14), embodying God's ultimate communication to humanity.

from the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was a portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It served as the central place of worship and sacrifice, symbolizing God's presence and holiness. The location of this communication highlights the importance of the Tabernacle as the meeting point between God and His people. The Tent of Meeting foreshadows the incarnation of Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14), and the future establishment of God's eternal dwelling with humanity in Revelation 21:3.

saying,
This introductory word sets the stage for the specific instructions that follow. It indicates that what is about to be communicated is of divine origin and carries the weight of God's authority. The use of "saying" is a common biblical formula that introduces direct speech, ensuring that the message is received as God's own words. This mirrors the way Jesus often prefaced His teachings with "Truly, I say to you," emphasizing the truth and authority of His message.

Speak to the Israelites and tell them:
This directive is given to Moses, emphasizing his role as a mediator between God and the people of Israel. The Israelites, descendants of Jacob, are the chosen people through whom God intends to reveal His laws and covenant. This communication underscores the importance of divine instruction and the need for obedience to God's commands. It sets the stage for the detailed laws and rituals that follow, which are central to Israelite worship and community life.

When any of you brings an offering to the LORD:
The concept of offerings is central to the worship practices of ancient Israel. Offerings were a means of maintaining a relationship with God, acknowledging His sovereignty, and seeking atonement for sins. The phrase "to the LORD" indicates that these offerings are not merely ritualistic but are acts of devotion directed towards Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. This reflects the broader biblical theme of worship and sacrifice as expressions of faith and obedience.

you may bring as your offering an animal from the herd or the flock:
The specification of animals from the herd or flock highlights the agrarian context of the Israelites, where livestock was a primary source of wealth and sustenance. This requirement also points to the sacrificial system's role in teaching the value of giving something of personal significance to God. The use of animals in sacrifice foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. The herd typically refers to cattle, while the flock includes sheep and goats, each having specific symbolic meanings and uses in various offerings throughout Leviticus.

If his offering is a burnt offering from the herd
The burnt offering, or "olah" in Hebrew, signifies an offering that is completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God. This type of offering was common in ancient Near Eastern cultures, but in Israel, it held a unique covenantal significance. The offering from the herd indicates a domesticated animal, typically cattle, which were valuable assets, reflecting the offerer's willingness to give something of great worth to God. This act of sacrifice is a precursor to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself wholly for humanity's redemption.

he is to present an unblemished male
The requirement for an unblemished male animal underscores the importance of purity and perfection in offerings to God. This reflects God's holiness and the need for the worshiper to approach Him with integrity and sincerity. The male animal, often seen as the stronger and more valuable, symbolizes strength and leadership. This foreshadows Christ, the sinless and perfect Lamb of God, who was offered without blemish for the sins of the world (1 Peter 1:19).

He must bring it to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, or Tabernacle, was the central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. Bringing the offering to the entrance signifies the worshiper's approach to God, acknowledging His presence and seeking communion with Him. This act of bringing the offering to a specific location highlights the importance of obedience and reverence in worship. The Tabernacle itself is a type of Christ, as it was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people (John 1:14).

for its acceptance before the LORD
The acceptance of the offering by the LORD indicates divine approval and favor. This acceptance was contingent upon the offerer's obedience to God's instructions and the condition of the offering itself. It reflects the principle that God desires sincere worship and a heart aligned with His will. This acceptance is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, whose sacrifice was fully accepted by God, providing eternal redemption for believers (Ephesians 5:2).

He is to lay his hand on the head of the burnt offering
This act of laying hands on the offering symbolizes identification and transfer. In ancient Israelite culture, this gesture signified the transfer of the individual's sins onto the animal, representing a substitutionary atonement. The laying on of hands is a recurring biblical theme, seen in the ordination of priests (Numbers 8:10) and the commissioning of leaders (Deuteronomy 34:9). It signifies a personal connection and responsibility, emphasizing the offerer's active role in the sacrificial process.

so it can be accepted on his behalf
The acceptance of the offering on behalf of the individual highlights the concept of substitutionary atonement, where the animal takes the place of the sinner. This principle is foundational in the sacrificial system and foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who was accepted by God on behalf of humanity (Ephesians 5:2). The acceptance also indicates God's willingness to forgive and restore the relationship between Himself and the offerer.

to make atonement for him
Atonement involves reconciliation between God and humanity, achieved through the covering or removal of sin. In the Old Testament, atonement was a central theme, with the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) being the most significant observance (Leviticus 16). The Hebrew word for atonement, "kaphar," means to cover, cleanse, or appease. This sacrificial system points to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, whose death and resurrection provide the final and complete atonement for sin (Hebrews 9:12-14). The concept of atonement underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of a mediator between God and humanity.

And he shall slaughter the young bull before the LORD
This phrase describes the act of sacrifice, a central element in the Levitical system. The young bull, a valuable offering, signifies the seriousness of sin and the costliness of atonement. The act of slaughtering "before the LORD" emphasizes that the sacrifice is made in the presence of God, highlighting His holiness and the need for purification. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who was offered once for all to atone for sin (Hebrews 9:12-14).

and Aaron’s sons the priests are to present the blood
The priests, descendants of Aaron, serve as mediators between God and the people. Presenting the blood signifies the life given in exchange for sin, as blood represents life (Leviticus 17:11). This act prefigures Christ's role as the High Priest who offers His own blood for the redemption of humanity (Hebrews 9:11-14).

and splatter it on all sides of the altar
The splattering of blood on the altar symbolizes the purification and consecration of the altar, making it holy and acceptable for offerings. This ritual act signifies the cleansing power of the blood, pointing to the cleansing from sin through Christ's sacrifice (1 John 1:7).

at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was the designated place where God met with His people. The altar's location at the entrance signifies the necessity of atonement before entering God's presence. This reflects the New Testament teaching that access to God is granted through the sacrifice of Jesus, who is the way to the Father (John 14:6).

Next, he is to skin the burnt offering
In the context of Leviticus, the burnt offering was a voluntary act of worship, atonement for unintentional sin, and an expression of devotion to God. The act of skinning the animal was a meticulous process, symbolizing the removal of the outer layer to expose what is beneath, which can be seen as a metaphor for repentance and the stripping away of sin. This process was performed by the offerer, indicating personal involvement in the sacrificial act. The skin of the animal was given to the priest as part of their provision (Leviticus 7:8), highlighting the support of the priesthood through the offerings of the people.

and cut it into pieces.
The cutting of the offering into pieces was a detailed and deliberate act, ensuring that the sacrifice was prepared according to God's instructions. This process allowed for the entire animal to be consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication and surrender to God. The division into parts can also be seen as a type of Christ, whose body was broken for humanity (1 Corinthians 11:24). Each piece of the offering was arranged on the altar, signifying order and completeness in worship. This act of cutting and arranging parallels the New Testament teaching of presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).

The sons of Aaron the priest
This phrase refers to the descendants of Aaron, who was the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. The Aaronic priesthood was established by God to serve in the tabernacle and later in the temple. The role of the priests was to mediate between God and the people, offering sacrifices and maintaining the rituals prescribed in the Law. This priestly lineage is significant as it underscores the hereditary nature of the priesthood in Israel, which was a divine appointment. The New Testament book of Hebrews contrasts this with the priesthood of Jesus, who is a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek, not based on lineage but on the power of an indestructible life.

shall put a fire on the altar
The altar referred to here is the bronze altar of burnt offering, located in the courtyard of the tabernacle. The fire on this altar was to be kept burning continually, as commanded in Leviticus 6:13. This perpetual fire symbolized God's eternal presence and the ongoing need for atonement. The act of putting fire on the altar signifies the priests' responsibility to maintain this divine command. In a broader theological context, fire often represents God's holiness and judgment, as seen in the burning bush (Exodus 3) and the tongues of fire at Pentecost (Acts 2).

and arrange wood on the fire
The wood was necessary to sustain the fire for the burnt offerings, which were a central aspect of Israelite worship. The careful arrangement of wood by the priests ensured that the fire would burn steadily and consume the sacrifices completely. This act of arranging wood can be seen as a type of Christ, who was laid upon the wood of the cross as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. The meticulous preparation of the altar reflects the order and precision required in worship, emphasizing that approaching God must be done according to His instructions.

Then Aaron’s sons the priests
This phrase highlights the role of Aaron's sons, who were designated as priests. The priesthood was established through Aaron, the brother of Moses, and his descendants. This lineage was crucial for maintaining the sanctity and order of worship in Israel. The priesthood was a hereditary office, emphasizing the importance of family and lineage in the religious life of Israel. The priests served as mediators between God and the people, a role that foreshadows the ultimate mediation of Jesus Christ, who is described as our High Priest in the New Testament (Hebrews 4:14-16).

are to arrange the pieces
The act of arranging the pieces of the sacrifice was a meticulous task that required attention to detail and reverence. This process signifies the order and precision required in worship and offerings to God. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God being a God of order, as seen in the creation narrative (Genesis 1) and the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle (Exodus 25-31). The careful arrangement also symbolizes the need for intentionality in worship, pointing to the heart's posture in offering oneself to God.

including the head and the fat
The inclusion of the head and the fat in the offering is significant. The head represents the entirety of the being, while the fat, considered the best part of the animal, symbolizes the offering of the best to God. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, fat was often associated with abundance and blessing. The offering of the best parts underscores the principle of giving God the first and best of what one has, a theme echoed in Proverbs 3:9. This also prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who gave His all for humanity.

atop the burning wood on the altar
The altar was central to Israelite worship, serving as the place where sacrifices were made to atone for sin and express devotion to God. The burning wood signifies the consuming nature of the sacrifice, representing purification and the complete surrender of the offering to God. Fire is often associated with God's presence and holiness (Exodus 3:2, Hebrews 12:29). The altar points to the cross of Christ, where the ultimate sacrifice was made, fulfilling the sacrificial system and providing a way for humanity to be reconciled to God.

The entrails and legs must be washed with water
In the sacrificial system, the washing of the entrails and legs symbolizes purification and the removal of impurities. This act reflects the need for cleanliness and holiness before God, as seen in other purification rituals throughout Leviticus. The washing signifies the internal and external purity required of the offering, pointing to the holiness God demands from His people. This practice also foreshadows the cleansing work of Jesus Christ, who purifies believers from sin (Hebrews 10:22).

and the priest shall burn all of it on the altar
The complete burning of the offering signifies total dedication and surrender to God. The priest acts as a mediator between the people and God, highlighting the role of Christ as our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). The altar, central to the tabernacle and later the temple, represents the place where God meets with His people. The act of burning the entire offering underscores the concept of atonement and the seriousness of sin, requiring a complete sacrifice.

as a burnt offering
The burnt offering, or "olah" in Hebrew, is one of the oldest and most significant offerings, symbolizing atonement and reconciliation with God. It is entirely consumed by fire, representing the worshiper's total devotion and the complete acceptance of the offering by God. This offering prefigures Christ's ultimate sacrifice, who offered Himself wholly to God on behalf of humanity (Ephesians 5:2).

a food offering
Though not consumed by the priests or worshipers, the burnt offering is described as a "food offering" to God, indicating that it is a gift or tribute to the Lord. This terminology emphasizes the relational aspect of the sacrifice, as it is presented to God as an act of worship and fellowship. It reflects the idea that God is pleased with the offerings of His people when given with a sincere heart.

a pleasing aroma to the LORD
The phrase "a pleasing aroma" signifies God's acceptance and satisfaction with the offering. It is a metaphorical expression indicating that the sacrifice is agreeable to God, aligning with His will and purposes. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where Christ's sacrifice is described as a fragrant offering to God (Ephesians 5:2). The pleasing aroma underscores the idea that true worship and obedience are delightful to the Lord.

If, however, one’s offering is a burnt offering from the flock
The burnt offering, or "olah" in Hebrew, signifies an offering that is completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God. This type of offering was a common practice in ancient Israel, serving as a means of atonement and worship. The flock, consisting of sheep and goats, was a primary source of livelihood in the agrarian society of ancient Israel, making these animals a significant and valuable offering. The choice of animals from the flock highlights the accessibility of worship for those who may not afford larger animals like bulls.

from the sheep or goats
Sheep and goats were prevalent in the ancient Near East and were often used in sacrificial practices. These animals were readily available and were a staple in the diet and economy of the Israelites. The distinction between sheep and goats is also seen in other biblical texts, such as Matthew 25:32-33, where they symbolize different groups of people. In the context of Leviticus, both animals are acceptable for sacrifice, emphasizing the inclusivity of worship practices.

he is to present an unblemished male
The requirement for an unblemished male animal underscores the importance of offering the best to God, reflecting His holiness and perfection. This stipulation points to the need for purity and integrity in worship. The unblemished male also serves as a type of Christ, who is described as the Lamb of God without blemish or defect (1 Peter 1:19). This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who was sinless and perfect, fulfilling the sacrificial system established in the Old Testament.

He shall slaughter it on the north side of the altar before the LORD
The act of slaughtering the animal on the north side of the altar is significant in the context of the tabernacle's layout. The north side was considered a place of sacrifice and offering, aligning with the idea of presenting offerings directly before God. This specific location may symbolize the direction from which divine judgment and deliverance come, as seen in other biblical references to the north (e.g., Isaiah 14:13). The act of slaughtering the animal "before the LORD" emphasizes the offering's purpose as a means of atonement and worship, acknowledging God's holiness and the need for reconciliation with Him. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who was crucified to atone for humanity's sins, fulfilling the sacrificial system's requirements.

and Aaron’s sons the priests are to splatter its blood against the altar on all sides
The priests, specifically Aaron's sons, were responsible for the ritual duties associated with the sacrifices. Their role highlights the importance of mediation between God and the people, a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament. The act of splattering the blood against the altar on all sides signifies the comprehensive nature of atonement, covering all aspects of sin. Blood, representing life, was a crucial element in the sacrificial system, symbolizing purification and the sealing of covenants (Leviticus 17:11). This practice points to the New Testament understanding of Jesus' blood as the ultimate means of cleansing and redemption (Hebrews 9:22). The priests' actions prefigure Christ's role as the High Priest, who offers His own blood for the eternal redemption of believers.

He is to cut the animal into pieces
This phrase refers to the specific instructions given to the offerer of the burnt offering. The act of cutting the animal into pieces signifies the detailed and deliberate nature of the sacrificial system. It reflects the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. The division of the animal can be seen as a type of Christ, whose body was broken for humanity's sins. This process also emphasizes the personal involvement of the offerer in the sacrificial act, symbolizing the personal nature of repentance and dedication to God.

and the priest shall arrange them
The priest's role in arranging the pieces highlights the mediatory function of the priesthood in the Old Testament. Priests acted as intermediaries between God and the people, foreshadowing the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who mediates the new covenant. This arrangement by the priest ensures that the offering is presented in an orderly and acceptable manner, reflecting God's desire for order and holiness in worship.

including the head and fat
The inclusion of the head and fat in the offering signifies the completeness of the sacrifice. The head represents leadership and authority, while the fat, often considered the best part, symbolizes abundance and richness. Offering these parts indicates giving the best to God, a principle seen throughout Scripture. This completeness points to the totality of Christ's sacrifice, who gave His all for the redemption of humanity.

atop the burning wood that is on the altar
The burning wood on the altar represents the consuming fire of God's holiness and judgment. The altar, central to Israelite worship, signifies a place of meeting between God and man. The fire consuming the sacrifice symbolizes God's acceptance of the offering and the atonement of sin. This imagery is fulfilled in Christ, who bore the fire of God's wrath on the cross, providing a way for humanity to be reconciled to God. The altar's perpetual fire also points to the continuous need for atonement, ultimately fulfilled in the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus.

The entrails and legs must be washed with water
In the sacrificial system, washing the entrails and legs symbolized purification and the removal of impurities. This act reflects the need for cleanliness and holiness before God, as seen in Psalm 24:3-4, which emphasizes purity in approaching the Lord. The washing also prefigures the cleansing work of Christ, who purifies believers (Hebrews 10:22).

and the priest shall present all of it
The priest's role in presenting the entire offering underscores the concept of total dedication to God. This act of presenting the whole sacrifice signifies complete surrender and devotion, paralleling Romans 12:1, where believers are urged to offer their bodies as living sacrifices. The priest as a mediator foreshadows Christ, our High Priest, who presents us blameless before God (Hebrews 4:14-16).

and burn it on the altar
Burning the offering on the altar represents the complete consumption and transformation of the sacrifice, symbolizing the total commitment required of the worshiper. The altar, central to Israelite worship, signifies God's presence and acceptance of the offering. This act points to Christ's sacrifice, wholly consumed for our sins (Ephesians 5:2).

it is a burnt offering
The burnt offering, or "olah" in Hebrew, was one of the most common sacrifices, signifying atonement and dedication. It was entirely consumed by fire, indicating the worshiper's complete surrender to God. This offering prefigures Christ's ultimate sacrifice, who offered Himself entirely for humanity's redemption (Hebrews 9:14).

a food offering
Though not consumed by the priests, the burnt offering is described as a "food offering," indicating it was a gift to God, symbolizing fellowship and communion. This term highlights the relational aspect of the sacrifice, pointing to the spiritual nourishment found in Christ, the Bread of Life (John 6:35).

a pleasing aroma to the LORD
The phrase "a pleasing aroma" signifies God's acceptance and satisfaction with the offering. It reflects the idea that true worship, characterized by obedience and devotion, is delightful to God. This concept is echoed in Ephesians 5:2, where Christ's sacrificial love is described as a fragrant offering to God, pleasing and acceptable.

If, instead, one’s offering to the LORD is a burnt offering of birds
In the context of Leviticus, the burnt offering was a voluntary act of worship, atonement for unintentional sin, and an expression of devotion, commitment, and complete surrender to God. The provision for offering birds instead of larger animals like bulls or sheep indicates God's accommodation for the poor, ensuring that everyone, regardless of economic status, could participate in worship and atonement. This reflects God's inclusivity and compassion, as seen in other scriptures like Luke 2:24, where Mary and Joseph offer birds at Jesus' presentation in the temple, indicating their humble status.

he is to present a turtledove or a young pigeon
Turtledoves and young pigeons were common and inexpensive birds in ancient Israel, making them accessible to the poorer segments of society. These birds were often used in sacrificial rituals, as seen in Genesis 15:9, where Abram offers a turtledove and a young pigeon. The choice of these specific birds also points to their symbolic purity and innocence, qualities that are significant in sacrificial offerings. In the New Testament, Jesus' sacrifice is often seen as the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system, embodying purity and innocence, as highlighted in Hebrews 9:14. The offering of birds can be seen as a type of Christ, who, though humble and of no worldly wealth, was the perfect sacrifice for humanity's sins.

Then the priest shall bring it to the altar
The role of the priest in the sacrificial system was central, acting as a mediator between God and the people. The altar, located in the Tabernacle's courtyard, was the designated place for sacrifices, symbolizing God's presence and the need for atonement. This act of bringing the offering to the altar signifies the approach to God, emphasizing the need for a mediator, which foreshadows Christ as our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16).

twist off its head
This phrase describes the specific method of sacrifice for a bird offering, which was typically a turtledove or young pigeon. The act of twisting off the head was a practical method for a small animal and highlights the seriousness of sin requiring a life to be given. This act can be seen as a type of Christ's sacrifice, where His life was given for the atonement of sin (Isaiah 53:5).

and burn it on the altar
Burning the offering on the altar was a way to transform the physical sacrifice into a pleasing aroma to the Lord, symbolizing complete dedication and surrender to God. This act of burning represents the total consumption of the offering, pointing to the totality of Christ's sacrifice on the cross (Ephesians 5:2).

its blood should be drained out on the side of the altar
The draining of blood is significant as blood represents life (Leviticus 17:11). The act of pouring it out on the altar's side signifies the offering of life to God and the cleansing power of the sacrifice. This prefigures the shedding of Christ's blood, which is essential for the forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 9:22). The side of the altar, where the blood was poured, can be seen as a place of purification and sanctification, pointing to the cleansing power of Jesus' blood.

And he is to remove the crop with its contents
In the context of Leviticus, this instruction pertains to the burnt offering, specifically the offering of birds. The removal of the crop and its contents signifies the removal of impurities before the offering is made to God. This act symbolizes the need for purity and holiness in worship, reflecting the broader Levitical theme of separating the clean from the unclean. The crop, being the part of the bird that holds food, represents the removal of earthly sustenance and reliance, pointing to a dependence on God alone. This purification process can be seen as a type of Christ, who was without blemish or impurity, offering Himself as a perfect sacrifice.

and throw it to the east side of the altar
The east side of the altar is significant in biblical symbolism. In the tabernacle and later the temple, the entrance faced east, and thus the east side was the direction from which one approached God. Throwing the removed parts to the east side may symbolize casting away impurities as one approaches the divine presence. The east is also associated with the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings and hope, which aligns with the theme of renewal and atonement in the sacrificial system. This act prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who removes our sins and allows us to approach God.

in the place for ashes
The place for ashes was designated for the disposal of the remains of sacrifices, signifying the completion of the offering process. Ashes, in biblical terms, often symbolize mourning, repentance, and humility. By placing the removed parts in the ash heap, it underscores the finality of the purification process and the seriousness of approaching God with a pure heart. This act of disposal also points to the complete and final atonement made by Christ, who bore our sins and removed them as far as the east is from the west, allowing believers to stand cleansed before God.

He shall tear it open by its wings, without dividing the bird completely.
This instruction pertains to the offering of birds, specifically turtledoves or young pigeons, as a burnt offering. The act of tearing the bird open by its wings without dividing it completely signifies a complete yet undivided sacrifice, symbolizing total dedication to God. This method of preparation is unique to birds, as larger animals were divided. The tearing without complete division may symbolize the unity and wholeness of the offering, reflecting the worshiper's complete devotion. This act foreshadows the sacrifice of Christ, who was wholly offered yet remained undivided in His divine purpose.

And the priest is to burn it on the altar atop the burning wood.
The burning of the offering on the altar signifies the complete consumption of the sacrifice by fire, representing purification and the ascent of the offering to God. The altar, central to Israelite worship, was a place of divine encounter and atonement. The burning wood signifies the continual presence of fire, a symbol of God's holiness and judgment. This act of burning the offering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who was wholly consumed by His passion and death, offering Himself as a fragrant offering to God.

It is a burnt offering, a food offering, a pleasing aroma to the LORD.
The burnt offering, or "olah" in Hebrew, signifies an offering that ascends to God, wholly consumed by fire. As a food offering, it represents sustenance and fellowship with God, though not consumed by the priests or worshipers. The phrase "a pleasing aroma to the LORD" indicates God's acceptance and satisfaction with the offering, symbolizing reconciliation and favor. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where Christ's sacrifice is described as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God (Ephesians 5:2), fulfilling the typology of the burnt offering as a means of atonement and divine pleasure.