Leviticus 22:23

You may present as a freewill offering an ox or sheep that has a deformed or stunted limb, but it is not acceptable in fulfillment of a vow.

Study Bible

You may present
This phrase indicates permission and allowance within the context of worship and offerings. The Hebrew root here is "qarab," which means to bring near or present. It reflects the act of drawing near to God through offerings, a central theme in Levitical worship. The act of presenting an offering is a symbolic gesture of devotion and reverence, acknowledging God's sovereignty and grace.

as a freewill offering
The term "freewill offering" comes from the Hebrew "nedabah," which signifies a voluntary act of worship. Unlike obligatory sacrifices, freewill offerings are given out of one's own volition, reflecting the worshiper's gratitude and love for God. This type of offering highlights the personal relationship between the worshiper and the Divine, emphasizing the heart's intent over the material value of the offering.

an ox or a sheep
These animals were common in ancient Israelite society and held significant economic and religious value. The ox, or "shor" in Hebrew, symbolizes strength and service, while the sheep, or "seh," represents innocence and purity. Offering these animals was a substantial act of devotion, as they were integral to the livelihood of the people.

that is deformed or stunted
The Hebrew words "mashchit" (deformed) and "qatser" (stunted) refer to physical imperfections. In the context of sacrificial laws, these terms underscore the importance of offering one's best to God. However, for a freewill offering, the emphasis is on the heart's intention rather than the physical perfection of the offering, illustrating God's understanding and acceptance of sincere worship.

but it will not be accepted
The phrase "will not be accepted" uses the Hebrew "ratsah," meaning to be pleased with or to accept favorably. This indicates that while God appreciates the voluntary nature of the freewill offering, He maintains standards for offerings made in fulfillment of vows. It underscores the principle that vows, being solemn promises to God, require offerings that reflect the seriousness and commitment of the vow.

in fulfillment of a vow
A vow, or "neder" in Hebrew, is a solemn promise made to God, often in response to His blessings or deliverance. The fulfillment of a vow required offerings that were without blemish, symbolizing the worshiper's integrity and faithfulness. This distinction between freewill offerings and vow fulfillments highlights the varying levels of commitment and the importance of honoring one's word to God with the utmost sincerity and respect.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites on how to live holy lives.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, including instructions on offerings and sacrifices.

3. Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites worshiped God and offered sacrifices, serving as the central place of worship during their journey in the wilderness.

4. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing the sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the Tabernacle.

5. Freewill Offering
A voluntary offering made by the Israelites to express devotion and gratitude to God, distinct from obligatory sacrifices.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Worship
God desires offerings that reflect our best, symbolizing our respect and reverence for Him. Even in voluntary offerings, the quality of what we present matters.

Integrity in Vows
The distinction between freewill offerings and vows underscores the importance of integrity and commitment in our promises to God.

Heart of Worship
While the physical condition of the offering is important, the heart behind the offering is crucial. Our worship should be sincere and wholehearted.

Grace and Freedom
The allowance for deformed or stunted animals in freewill offerings reflects God's grace, allowing for expressions of worship from all, regardless of their means.

Living Sacrifices
As New Testament believers, we are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, emphasizing a life of holiness and dedication to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allowance of deformed or stunted animals for freewill offerings reflect God's grace and understanding of human limitations?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and offerings to God are sincere and wholehearted, reflecting the best we have to offer?

3. How does the concept of fulfilling vows in Leviticus 22:23 relate to the teachings of Jesus on making promises in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer ourselves as living sacrifices in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

5. How can the principles of freewill offerings in Leviticus inform our understanding of giving and generosity in the context of the church today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 23:21-23
Discusses the importance of fulfilling vows made to God, emphasizing the seriousness of making and keeping promises.

Malachi 1:8
Criticizes the offering of blemished animals, highlighting the need for sincerity and respect in worship.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is their true and proper worship.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Speaks of offering sacrifices of praise and doing good, which are pleasing to God, drawing a parallel to the concept of freewill offerings.