Leviticus 2:9

The priest is to remove the memorial portion from the grain offering and burn it on the altar as an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD.

Study Bible

The priest is to remove the memorial portion from the grain offering
In the Levitical system, the priest played a crucial role as a mediator between God and the people. The "memorial portion" refers to a handful of the grain offering, which included fine flour, oil, and frankincense. This act of removing a portion signifies the offering's dedication to God. The grain offering, or "minchah," was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and devotion. It was distinct from animal sacrifices, emphasizing the fruits of human labor. This offering foreshadows Christ, who is the Bread of Life, symbolizing sustenance and provision.

and burn it on the altar
Burning the offering on the altar signifies complete dedication and surrender to God. The altar, central to Israelite worship, was a place of sacrifice and atonement. The act of burning represents purification and transformation, turning the offering into smoke that ascends to God. This process reflects the idea of offerings being consumed by divine fire, a theme seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in the sacrifices of Elijah on Mount Carmel.

as a food offering
The term "food offering" indicates that the sacrifice is seen as a meal for God, symbolizing fellowship and communion. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, sharing a meal was a sign of peace and relationship. This offering underscores the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God provides for His people, and they, in turn, offer back to Him. This concept is echoed in the New Testament through the Lord's Supper, where believers partake in communion with Christ.

a pleasing aroma to the LORD
The phrase "pleasing aroma" is a recurring motif in the sacrificial system, indicating God's acceptance of the offering. It suggests that the sacrifice, when offered with a sincere heart, is delightful to God. This imagery is used in the New Testament to describe Christ's sacrifice on the cross, which is described as a "fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" (Ephesians 5:2). The pleasing aroma signifies reconciliation and peace with God, achieved through obedience and faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest is the mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals as prescribed in the Law.

2. Grain Offering
A type of offering made to God, consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.

3. Altar
The place where sacrifices and offerings are made to God, representing His presence and the means of atonement.

4. Memorial Portion
A part of the grain offering that is burned on the altar, signifying remembrance and dedication to God.

5. Pleasing Aroma
A metaphorical expression indicating that the offering is acceptable and pleasing to God.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest's role as a mediator foreshadows Christ's ultimate priesthood, reminding us of the importance of intercession and mediation in our spiritual lives.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
The grain offering represents dedication and thanksgiving. In our lives, we are called to offer our time, talents, and resources to God as an act of worship.

The Altar as a Place of Sacrifice
The altar signifies a place of surrender and commitment. We are encouraged to lay down our lives and desires at the altar, trusting in God's provision and plan.

Memorial Portion and Remembrance
The memorial portion serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and our covenant relationship with Him. Regularly reflecting on God's past faithfulness strengthens our faith.

Pleasing Aroma and Acceptable Worship
Our worship and offerings should be genuine and heartfelt, aiming to please God rather than seeking human approval. True worship is characterized by sincerity and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 2:9 point to the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can we offer "grain offerings" in our daily lives, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving to God?

3. What does the concept of a "pleasing aroma" teach us about the nature of acceptable worship and offerings to God?

4. How can the practice of remembering God's faithfulness, as symbolized by the memorial portion, impact our spiritual journey?

5. How do the principles of sacrifice and offering in Leviticus 2:9 relate to the New Testament teachings on living a life of worship and service?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:18
This verse also speaks of offerings being a pleasing aroma to the Lord, emphasizing the importance of obedience and the heart behind the offering.

Hebrews 13:15-16
These verses connect the concept of offerings to the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to offer sacrifices of praise and good deeds.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament offerings as acts of worship.