In the Old Testament sacrificial system, peace offerings, also known as fellowship offerings, were a significant aspect of Israelite worship. These offerings were distinct from other sacrifices in that they symbolized reconciliation and communion between the offerer, the priest, and God. The peace offering was a voluntary act of worship, expressing thanksgiving, fulfillment of a vow, or simply a freewill offering to the Lord.

Biblical Foundation

The instructions for peace offerings are primarily found in the book of Leviticus. Leviticus 3 outlines the general procedure for peace offerings, while Leviticus 7:11-34 provides more detailed regulations, including the portions allocated to the priests. The peace offering could be from the herd or the flock, and it could be male or female, but it had to be without blemish.

The Role of the Priest

The priest played a crucial role in the ritual of the peace offering. After the animal was slaughtered, the priest would sprinkle its blood around the altar. The fat and certain internal organs were burned on the altar as a food offering to the Lord, creating a pleasing aroma (Leviticus 3:3-5).

Heaving the Right Shoulder

One of the unique aspects of the peace offering was the heaving of the right shoulder. Leviticus 7:32-34 states: "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. From the peace offerings of the Israelites, I have taken the breast that is waved and the thigh that is contributed and have given them to Aaron the priest and his sons as a perpetual portion from the Israelites."

The right shoulder, or thigh, was given to the priest as an "heave offering." The term "heave" refers to the lifting or raising of the portion as an act of presentation to God. This act symbolized the offering being set apart for the priest, acknowledging God's provision for those who served in the tabernacle.

Symbolism and Significance

The heaving of the right shoulder as an offering held deep symbolic meaning. It represented the offerer's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision. By giving a portion to the priest, the offerer was participating in the sustenance of the priestly ministry, which was essential for maintaining the spiritual life of the community.

Furthermore, the peace offering, including the heave offering, was a communal meal. After the portions for the altar and the priest were set aside, the remaining meat was consumed by the offerer and their family, signifying fellowship with God and one another. This communal aspect underscored the peace and unity that the offering was intended to celebrate.

Conclusion

The heaving of the right shoulder in the peace offering ritual was a vital component of the sacrificial system, reflecting the interconnectedness of worship, community, and divine provision. Through this act, the Israelites expressed gratitude, fulfilled vows, and celebrated their covenant relationship with God.Exodus 29:22-27
Also you shall take of the ram the fat and the rump, and the fat that covers the inwards, and the lobe above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, and the right shoulder; for it is a ram of consecration:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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

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

What were the various sacrifices in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org

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