Leviticus 1:16

And he is to remove the crop with its contents and throw it to the east side of the altar, in the place for ashes.

Study Bible

And he is to remove the crop with its contents
In the context of Leviticus, this instruction pertains to the burnt offering, specifically the offering of birds. The removal of the crop and its contents signifies the removal of impurities before the offering is made to God. This act symbolizes the need for purity and holiness in worship, reflecting the broader Levitical theme of separating the clean from the unclean. The crop, being the part of the bird that holds food, represents the removal of earthly sustenance and reliance, pointing to a dependence on God alone. This purification process can be seen as a type of Christ, who was without blemish or impurity, offering Himself as a perfect sacrifice.

and throw it to the east side of the altar
The east side of the altar is significant in biblical symbolism. In the tabernacle and later the temple, the entrance faced east, and thus the east side was the direction from which one approached God. Throwing the removed parts to the east side may symbolize casting away impurities as one approaches the divine presence. The east is also associated with the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings and hope, which aligns with the theme of renewal and atonement in the sacrificial system. This act prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who removes our sins and allows us to approach God.

in the place for ashes
The place for ashes was designated for the disposal of the remains of sacrifices, signifying the completion of the offering process. Ashes, in biblical terms, often symbolize mourning, repentance, and humility. By placing the removed parts in the ash heap, it underscores the finality of the purification process and the seriousness of approaching God with a pure heart. This act of disposal also points to the complete and final atonement made by Christ, who bore our sins and removed them as far as the east is from the west, allowing believers to stand cleansed before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The individual responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals as outlined in Leviticus. The priest acts as a mediator between God and the people.

2. Altar
A sacred structure where offerings and sacrifices are made to God. In this context, it is the place where the burnt offering is prepared and presented.

3. East Side of the Altar
The specific location designated for disposing of the crop and its contents. This direction holds symbolic significance in biblical texts, often associated with beginnings and God's presence.

4. Place for Ashes
A designated area for the disposal of remains from the sacrifices, symbolizing purification and the removal of sin.

5. Burnt Offering
A type of sacrifice in which the entire offering is consumed by fire, symbolizing complete surrender and atonement to God.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The detailed instructions for sacrifices in Leviticus highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands. As believers, we are called to follow God's Word with precision and reverence.

Symbolism of Purification
The removal of the crop and its contents to the place for ashes symbolizes the purification process. In our spiritual lives, we must continually seek to remove sin and impurities, allowing God to cleanse us.

The Role of Sacrifice
Sacrifices in the Old Testament point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Understanding the sacrificial system helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's atonement and our call to live sacrificially for Him.

God's Holiness and Our Response
The sacrificial system underscores God's holiness and the need for atonement. Our response should be one of awe, worship, and a commitment to holiness in our own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific instruction to remove the crop and its contents reflect the importance of obedience in our relationship with God?

2. In what ways does the symbolism of the east side of the altar and the place for ashes apply to our spiritual journey and the process of purification?

3. How can understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out the principle of sacrifice in our daily lives, following the example of Christ?

5. How does the concept of God's holiness, as seen in the sacrificial system, influence our approach to worship and our personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Describes the consecration of priests and the importance of following God's specific instructions for sacrifices, highlighting the role of the priesthood.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the New Covenant and the fulfillment of the law through Christ.

Psalm 51
Emphasizes the importance of a contrite heart over ritual sacrifices, pointing to the internal transformation God desires.