The heave-offering, a significant aspect of Old Testament worship and sacrificial practice, is a type of offering presented to God by the Israelites. It is distinct from other offerings due to its specific ritual and symbolic meaning. The term "heave-offering" is derived from the Hebrew word "terumah," which signifies something lifted or raised up, indicating the act of presenting it to the Lord.

Biblical Foundation and Instructions

The heave-offering is first introduced in the context of the construction of the Tabernacle, where the Israelites were instructed to bring offerings for its building. Exodus 25:2 states, "Tell the Israelites to bring Me an offering. You are to receive My offering from every man whose heart compels him." This voluntary offering was a means for the people to contribute to the sacred space where God would dwell among them.

In the Levitical law, the heave-offering is further detailed as a portion of the sacrifices given to the priests. Numbers 18:8 declares, "Then the LORD said to Aaron, 'I have given you charge of the contributions made to Me. As an allotment for you and your sons, I have given you the portion of the offerings presented to Me as a permanent statute.'" This passage underscores the heave-offering's role in supporting the Levitical priesthood, who were set apart for service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

Ritual and Symbolism

The heave-offering was typically a portion of the sacrificial animal or produce, such as grain, oil, or wine, lifted up before the Lord as a sign of dedication and acknowledgment of His provision. Leviticus 7:14 specifies, "From the cakes, he is to present one as an offering to the LORD; it belongs to the priest who sprinkles the blood of the peace offerings." This act of lifting or raising the offering symbolized the worshiper's recognition of God's sovereignty and their dependence on Him.

The heave-offering also served as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. By bringing the best of their produce or livestock, the Israelites demonstrated their gratitude and commitment to the Lord's commandments. It was an expression of faith and obedience, acknowledging that all blessings ultimately come from God.

Heave-Offering in the Context of Worship

The heave-offering was integral to the worship practices of ancient Israel, reflecting the community's devotion and reverence for God. It was not merely a ritualistic act but a heartfelt expression of worship and thanksgiving. The offering was to be brought to God's house, the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, signifying the centrality of God's presence in the life of the nation.

In the broader context of biblical theology, the heave-offering points to the principle of giving God the first and best of what one has. Proverbs 3:9 echoes this sentiment: "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest." This principle is carried forward into the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).

Conclusion

The heave-offering, as outlined in the Old Testament, is a profound expression of worship, gratitude, and covenant faithfulness. It underscores the importance of dedicating the best of one's resources to God and supporting those who minister in His name. Through the heave-offering, the Israelites were reminded of their dependence on God and their responsibility to honor Him with their substance.Deuteronomy 12:6
And thither you shall bring your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, and your tithes, and heave offerings of your hand, and your vows, and your freewill offerings, and the firstborn of your herds and of your flocks:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

part 1
... then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for ... to keep the Passover unto the
Lord God of Israel. ... came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/tithing/part 1.htm

The Second Oration on Easter.
... for our war with such men, let it be brought to an ... to mean those created Existences
of which God is the ... is given by the Lexicons as the Heave-Offering, and it ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xlv the second oration.htm

What is a free will offering / freewill offering? | GotQuestions.org

What is a wave offering? | GotQuestions.org

Questions about Leviticus | GotQuestions.org

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