Leviticus 9:19

They also brought the fat portions from the ox and the ram--the fat tail, the fat covering the entrails, the kidneys, and the lobe of the liver--

Study Bible

They also brought
This phrase indicates the continuation of a ritual process, emphasizing the meticulous nature of the sacrificial system established by God. The Hebrew root for "brought" is "qarab," which means to draw near or present. This act of bringing offerings symbolizes the Israelites' desire to draw near to God, highlighting the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

the fat portions
In ancient Israelite culture, the fat portions were considered the best part of the animal, symbolizing richness and abundance. The Hebrew word "cheleb" refers to the choicest parts, which were reserved for God. Offering the fat portions signifies giving God the best of what one has, a principle that resonates with the call for believers to offer their best in service and devotion to God.

from the ox and the ram
The ox and the ram were significant animals in sacrificial rituals. The ox, or "par" in Hebrew, represents strength and service, while the ram, "ayil," symbolizes leadership and substitution. These animals were often used in offerings to atone for sin and to consecrate the people, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who embodies both strength and leadership.

the fat tail
The fat tail, or "alyah" in Hebrew, was a prized part of the animal, especially in the Near Eastern context. It was considered a delicacy and a symbol of prosperity. Offering the fat tail to God underscores the principle of giving the most valued and cherished possessions to Him, reflecting a heart of gratitude and submission.

the fat covering the entrails
This phrase refers to the protective layer of fat around the internal organs, known as "peder" in Hebrew. In the sacrificial system, this fat was burned on the altar, symbolizing purification and the removal of sin. It serves as a reminder of the need for inner cleansing and the transformative power of God's grace.

the kidneys
The kidneys, or "kilyah" in Hebrew, were considered the seat of emotion and thought in ancient Hebrew culture. Offering the kidneys signifies the surrender of one's innermost being to God, a call for believers to dedicate their thoughts and emotions to Him, seeking purity and alignment with His will.

and the lobe of the liver
The liver, "kabed" in Hebrew, was associated with honor and heaviness. The lobe of the liver was part of the sacrificial offering, symbolizing the weightiness of sin and the need for atonement. This act points to the seriousness of sin and the profound need for redemption, ultimately fulfilled in Christ's sacrifice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the law from God and instructed Aaron and his sons in the priestly duties.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel, responsible for performing the sacrifices.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who were present at the consecration of the tabernacle and the initiation of the priestly service.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among His people and where the sacrifices were offered.

5. The Sacrificial Ceremony
The event where Aaron and his sons offered sacrifices to God as part of their consecration and the atonement for the people.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Sacrifice
The detailed description of the sacrificial portions underscores the importance of following God's instructions precisely. It reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

Obedience to God's Commands
The priests' adherence to the sacrificial procedures highlights the importance of obedience in our walk with God. We are called to follow His commands faithfully.

Symbolism of the Sacrifice
The fat portions, considered the best parts, were offered to God, symbolizing giving our best to Him. This challenges us to prioritize God in our lives and offer Him our best in all we do.

Foreshadowing of Christ's Sacrifice
The sacrificial system points forward to Jesus Christ, the perfect and final sacrifice. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for His atoning work on the cross.

Holiness and Consecration
The consecration of the priests and the tabernacle signifies the call to holiness for all believers. We are set apart for God's purposes and should live lives that reflect His holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed description of the sacrificial portions in Leviticus 9:19 reflect the seriousness with which God views sin and atonement?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of giving our best to God in our daily lives, as symbolized by the offering of the fat portions?

3. How does the sacrificial system in Leviticus point forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and how does this understanding impact our faith?

4. What lessons can we learn from the obedience of Aaron and his sons in following God's instructions for the sacrifices, and how can we apply these lessons to our own spiritual walk?

5. How does the concept of holiness and consecration in the Old Testament relate to the New Testament call for believers to be living sacrifices, as described in Romans 12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter provides the instructions for the consecration of the priests, which is being carried out in Leviticus 9.

Hebrews 10
This New Testament passage discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sacrifice.

1 Samuel 15
This passage highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice, emphasizing the heart behind the offerings.

Romans 12
Paul speaks of offering our bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament sacrificial system.

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance underscores the importance of a contrite heart over ritualistic offerings.