The heave-offering is a significant component of the sacrificial system outlined in the Old Testament, particularly within the context of peace offerings. It is a specific portion of the sacrifice that is set apart for the priests, symbolizing the dedication of the offering to God. The term "heave" refers to the act of lifting or raising the offering, which is a gesture of presenting it to the Lord.

Biblical Foundation

The heave-offering is primarily discussed in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers. In the context of peace offerings, the right shoulder of the animal is designated as the heave-offering. This portion is given to the priests as their rightful share, as outlined in the Mosaic Law.

In Leviticus 7:32-34 , the instructions regarding the heave-offering are clearly stated: "You are to give the right thigh to the priest as a contribution from your peace offering. The son of Aaron who presents the blood and fat of the peace offering shall have the right thigh as a portion. For I have taken the breast of the wave offering and the thigh of the heave offering from the sons of Israel, from their peace offerings, and I have given them to Aaron the priest and to his sons as a perpetual portion from the Israelites."

Symbolism and Purpose

The heave-offering serves multiple purposes within the sacrificial system. Firstly, it is an act of worship and acknowledgment of God's provision. By offering the right shoulder, the Israelites demonstrated their gratitude and dependence on God. The act of heaving or lifting the offering symbolized the elevation of their hearts and minds towards the divine.

Secondly, the heave-offering provided for the sustenance of the priesthood. As the priests were dedicated to the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, they did not have a land inheritance like the other tribes of Israel. The heave-offering, along with other portions of sacrifices, ensured that the priests and their families were supported.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the heave-offering underscores the principle of giving God the best portion. The right shoulder, being a choice cut of meat, signifies the offering of one's best to the Lord. This principle is echoed throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of sacrificial giving and dedication to God.

Furthermore, the heave-offering highlights the communal aspect of worship in ancient Israel. The peace offering was a shared meal between the offerer, the priests, and symbolically, God Himself. The heave-offering, therefore, represents the unity and fellowship among the people of God, facilitated by the sacrificial system.

New Testament Reflection

While the specific practice of the heave-offering is not carried over into the New Testament, its principles find fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. As the ultimate High Priest, Jesus provides for His people, offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice. Believers are called to offer their lives as living sacrifices, as stated in Romans 12:1 : "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship."

In summary, the heave-offering is a rich symbol of dedication, provision, and communal worship within the Old Testament sacrificial system, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ and the call for believers to live lives of sacrificial service.Leviticus 7:32
And the right shoulder shall you give to the priest for an heave offering of the sacrifices of your peace offerings.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Judaism and the Mosaic Law ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org

What is a peace offering / fellowship offering? | GotQuestions.org

What is a trespass offering / guilt offering? | GotQuestions.org

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