Leviticus 10:14

And you and your sons and daughters may eat the breast of the wave offering and the thigh of the contribution in a ceremonially clean place, because these portions have been assigned to you and your children from the peace offerings of the sons of Israel.

Study Bible

And you and your sons and daughters may eat the breast of the wave offering and the thigh of the contribution
This phrase indicates the specific portions of the sacrificial offerings that were designated for the priests and their families. The "breast of the wave offering" and the "thigh of the contribution" were parts of the peace offerings, which were shared between the altar, the priests, and the offerer. The wave offering involved the priest waving the portion before the Lord, symbolizing its presentation to God and His acceptance. This practice highlights the provision for the priestly family, ensuring their sustenance as they served in the tabernacle. The inclusion of "sons and daughters" emphasizes the communal and familial aspect of worship and provision.

in a ceremonially clean place
The requirement for a "ceremonially clean place" underscores the importance of maintaining ritual purity, which was central to the Levitical law. Eating in a clean place ensured that the sanctity of the offering was preserved. This reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and separation from impurity, which is a recurring theme throughout Leviticus. The emphasis on cleanliness can be seen as a type pointing to the purity required by God, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the perfect High Priest.

because these portions have been assigned to you and your children
The assignment of these portions to the priests and their families was a divine ordinance, reflecting God's provision for those who ministered before Him. This allocation was not merely a practical measure but a sacred duty, reinforcing the idea that those who serve God are worthy of their sustenance. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where Paul writes about the rights of those who preach the gospel to receive their living from it (1 Corinthians 9:13-14).

from the peace offerings of the sons of Israel
The peace offerings, also known as fellowship offerings, were unique in that they symbolized reconciliation and communion with God. They were voluntary offerings, expressing gratitude, vows, or freewill devotion. The "sons of Israel" refers to the entire community of God's people, indicating that the offerings were a collective act of worship. This communal aspect of the peace offerings points to the unity and fellowship among God's people, a theme that is fulfilled in the New Testament church, where believers are called to live in peace and unity through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The high priest and brother of Moses, who is responsible for the priestly duties and rituals.

2. Sons of Aaron
The priests who assist Aaron in the tabernacle duties and partake in the offerings.

3. Holy Place
The designated area within the tabernacle where the priests are to consume the offerings.

4. Offerings Made by Fire
Sacrifices presented to the LORD, which include burnt offerings and peace offerings.

5. Command of the LORD
The divine instructions given to Moses and Aaron regarding the conduct and rituals of the priesthood.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Service
The consumption of offerings in a holy place underscores the importance of maintaining holiness in our service to God. Just as the priests were to eat in a designated holy area, we are called to conduct our lives in a manner that reflects God's holiness.

Divine Provision
The portion given to Aaron and his sons from the offerings illustrates God's provision for those who serve Him. This principle encourages us to trust in God's provision as we dedicate our lives to His service.

Obedience to God's Commands
The phrase "for this is what I have been commanded" highlights the importance of obedience to God's instructions. In our lives, we are called to follow God's commands faithfully, trusting in His wisdom and authority.

Community and Fellowship
The act of eating together in a holy place signifies the importance of community and fellowship among believers. It reminds us to cultivate relationships within the body of Christ, sharing in both spiritual and physical nourishment.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The offerings made by fire symbolize the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. As we reflect on these Old Testament practices, we are reminded of the fulfillment of these symbols in Jesus' sacrifice, which provides eternal sustenance for our souls.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of holiness in the consumption of offerings apply to our daily lives and spiritual practices today?

2. In what ways can we see God's provision in our lives, similar to how He provided for the priests through the offerings?

3. How can we ensure that our obedience to God's commands is reflected in our actions and decisions?

4. What steps can we take to foster a sense of community and fellowship within our church or small group, similar to the communal aspect of the priestly meals?

5. How does understanding the symbolism of Old Testament sacrifices enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice for us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 6:16-18
This passage provides further instructions on the consumption of offerings by the priests, emphasizing the holiness and sanctity of the act.

Numbers 18:8-10
These verses outline the portions of offerings designated for the priests, reinforcing the idea of divine provision for those serving in the tabernacle.

1 Corinthians 9:13-14
Paul draws a parallel between the Old Testament priestly provisions and the support of those who preach the gospel, highlighting the continuity of God's provision for His servants.