The wave-offering is a significant ritual in the Old Testament, particularly within the context of the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. This offering is characterized by the ceremonial act of waving certain portions of the sacrifice before the Lord, symbolizing the presentation and dedication of these offerings to God.

Biblical Foundation

The wave-offering is first introduced in the context of the peace offerings and the consecration of the priests. In Leviticus 7:30, the wave-offering is described as part of the peace offerings: "With his own hands he is to bring the offerings made by fire to the LORD; he shall bring the fat together with the breast, to wave it as a wave offering before the LORD" . This act of waving signified the offering's presentation to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and provision.

First Fruits of Wheaten Bread

A specific instance of the wave-offering involves the first fruits of wheaten bread, as detailed in Leviticus 23:17-20. During the Feast of Weeks, also known as Pentecost, the Israelites were commanded to bring two loaves of bread made from the first fruits of their wheat harvest. These loaves were to be waved before the Lord as a wave-offering: "From wherever you live, you are to bring two loaves of bread as a wave offering, made of two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour, baked with yeast, as firstfruits to the LORD" (Leviticus 23:17).

This offering of wheaten bread was a tangible expression of gratitude and acknowledgment of God's provision. It was a reminder that the land's bounty was a gift from God, and the first and best of the harvest was to be dedicated to Him. The inclusion of yeast in these loaves, unlike other offerings that required unleavened bread, signifies the abundance and fullness of the harvest.

Symbolism and Significance

The wave-offering, particularly the offering of the first fruits of wheaten bread, holds deep symbolic meaning. It represents the acknowledgment of God's provision and the dedication of the first and best of one's resources to Him. This act of worship underscores the principle of giving God the first fruits, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

Moreover, the wave-offering serves as a precursor to the New Testament understanding of offering oneself wholly to God. Just as the Israelites presented the first fruits of their harvest, believers are called to offer their lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).

Priestly Role and Ritual

The priests played a crucial role in the wave-offering ritual. They were responsible for performing the act of waving the offering before the Lord, signifying its acceptance and dedication. This priestly function highlights the mediatory role of the priests in the Old Testament sacrificial system, foreshadowing the ultimate mediation of Christ, our High Priest.

In summary, the wave-offering, particularly the offering of the first fruits of wheaten bread, is a profound expression of worship and dedication to God. It reflects the principles of gratitude, acknowledgment of divine provision, and the call to offer the best of what one has to the Lord.Leviticus 23:20
And the priest shall wave them with the bread of the first fruits for a wave offering before the LORD, with the two lambs: they shall be holy to the LORD for the priest.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

What is a wave offering? | GotQuestions.org

What is a heave offering? | GotQuestions.org

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

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