Leviticus 4:19

And he is to remove all the fat from it and burn it on the altar.

Study Bible

He shall remove
This phrase indicates a specific action required by the priest, emphasizing the meticulous nature of the sacrificial process. In Hebrew, the word for "remove" is "heisir," which implies a careful separation. This action symbolizes the removal of sin, as the fat represents the best part of the offering, dedicated wholly to God. The priest's role here is crucial, serving as a mediator between the people and God, highlighting the importance of purity and obedience in worship.

all the fat
In ancient Israelite culture, fat was considered the choicest part of the animal, symbolizing abundance and richness. The Hebrew word "chelev" refers to this fat, which was to be offered exclusively to God. This act of offering the best to God reflects the principle of giving God the first and finest of what we have, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. It underscores the idea that God deserves our utmost devotion and the best of our resources.

from it
This phrase specifies that the fat is to be taken from the sacrificial animal, indicating a precise and intentional act. The sacrificial system was not arbitrary but was designed with specific instructions to teach the Israelites about holiness and the seriousness of sin. The removal of fat "from it" signifies the separation of what is sacred from the common, a recurring theme in Levitical law.

and burn it
The act of burning the fat on the altar is significant in the sacrificial ritual. The Hebrew word "hiktir" means to offer up in smoke, symbolizing the ascent of the offering to God. This burning represents the complete surrender and dedication of the offering to the Lord. It serves as a reminder of the consuming nature of God's holiness and the need for atonement through sacrifice.

on the altar
The altar, or "mizbeach" in Hebrew, is the sacred place where sacrifices were made. It represents the meeting point between God and man, a place of atonement and reconciliation. The altar's central role in the sacrificial system highlights the necessity of a mediator and the shedding of blood for the forgiveness of sins. In a broader theological context, it foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who offered Himself on the altar of the cross for the sins of humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The individual responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals, acting as a mediator between the people and God.

2. Altar
The sacred place where sacrifices are offered to God, symbolizing His presence and the means of atonement.

3. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice in the Levitical system designed to atone for unintentional sins and restore the relationship between the sinner and God.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Sacrifice
The removal and burning of fat symbolize the complete dedication of the offering to God. In our lives, we are called to dedicate our best to God, holding nothing back.

Atonement and Forgiveness
The sin offering points to the need for atonement and the seriousness of sin. It reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who atoned for our sins once and for all.

Obedience to God's Commands
The detailed instructions for sacrifices in Leviticus highlight the importance of obedience. We are called to follow God's commands in our daily lives, trusting in His wisdom and sovereignty.

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar represents a place of meeting with God. In our spiritual walk, we must regularly come before God in prayer and worship, offering our lives as a living sacrifice.

Holiness and Purity
The sacrificial system underscores God's holiness and the need for purity. As believers, we are called to live holy lives, set apart for God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 4:19 reflect the role of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of offering our "fat" or best to God in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of atonement in Leviticus connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus' sacrifice?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our lives are a "pleasing aroma" to God, as described in the sacrificial system?

5. How can the detailed instructions for sacrifices in Leviticus teach us about the importance of obedience in our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3:16
This verse also discusses the burning of fat on the altar, emphasizing that it is a pleasing aroma to the Lord, highlighting the importance of obedience in sacrificial practices.

Hebrews 9:22
This New Testament verse explains the necessity of blood for the forgiveness of sins, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel between the physical sacrifices of the Old Testament and the spiritual sacrifices of the New Testament believer.