In the context of the Old Testament sacrificial system, the kidneys hold a significant role in the burnt offerings prescribed by the Mosaic Law. The kidneys, along with the fat surrounding them, were considered a choice part of the animal sacrifices and were specifically designated to be offered to the LORD on the altar.

Biblical References and Instructions

The instructions for the burnt offering of the kidneys are primarily found in the book of Leviticus, which details the various offerings and sacrifices required of the Israelites. In Leviticus 3:4, the LORD commands, "Then from the peace offering he is to present an offering made by fire to the LORD: the fat that covers the entrails, all the fat that is on the entrails, and the two kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys."

Similarly, in Leviticus 4:8-9, the text specifies, "He shall remove all the fat from the bull of the sin offering—the fat that covers the entrails, all the fat that is on them, both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys."

These passages highlight the importance of the kidneys in the sacrificial rites, emphasizing their role as a pleasing aroma to the LORD when burned on the altar.

Symbolic Significance

The kidneys, along with the fat, were considered the richest and most valuable parts of the animal. Offering these parts to God symbolized giving the best and most precious portions to Him, reflecting the worshiper's devotion and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision.

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the kidneys were also thought to be the seat of emotions and inner thoughts. Thus, their offering could symbolize the surrender of one's innermost being and desires to God, aligning one's heart and mind with His will.

Theological Implications

The burnt offering of the kidneys underscores the holiness and purity required in approaching God. The sacrificial system, with its detailed regulations, served to remind the Israelites of God's holiness and their need for atonement and reconciliation with Him. The offering of the kidneys, as part of the whole burnt offering, pointed to the complete dedication and consecration expected of God's people.

Furthermore, these sacrifices foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself wholly and perfectly to atone for the sins of humanity. As the book of Hebrews explains, the Old Testament sacrifices were a shadow of the good things to come, fulfilled in Christ's once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10:1-14).

In summary, the burnt offering of the kidneys in the Old Testament sacrificial system highlights the importance of giving the best to God, symbolizing complete devotion and the surrender of one's innermost being to Him. This practice, deeply rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people, ultimately points to the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ.Exodus 29:13,22
And you shall take all the fat that covers the inwards, and the lobe that is above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, and burn them on the altar.
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Leviticus 3:1
And if his oblation be a sacrifice of peace offering, if he offer it of the herd; whether it be a male or female, he shall offer it without blemish before the LORD.
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Leviticus 4:9,10
And the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, which is by the flanks, and the lobe above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away,
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Leviticus 7:4,5
And the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, which is by the flanks, and the lobe that is above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away:
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Leviticus 8:16
And he took all the fat that was on the inwards, and the lobe above the liver, and the two kidneys, and their fat, and Moses burned it on the altar.
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Leviticus 9:10
But the fat, and the kidneys, and the lobe above the liver of the sin offering, he burnt on the altar; as the LORD commanded Moses.
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Deuteronomy 32:14
Butter of cows, and milk of sheep, with fat of lambs, and rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, with the fat of kidneys of wheat; and you did drink the pure blood of the grape.
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Ancient Chaldaea
... of wormwood and mallow, endless vistas of burnt-up plain ... beans, 'lentils, chick-peas,
vetches, kidney beans, onions ... they lost the habit of offering sacrifices to ...
/.../chapter iancient chaldaea.htm

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