In biblical terms, the concept of "leftover" often pertains to the remnants of food or resources that remain after a meal or event. The treatment and significance of leftovers in the Bible can be seen in various contexts, reflecting principles of provision, stewardship, and divine abundance.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the idea of leftovers is frequently associated with the laws and practices surrounding offerings and sacrifices. For instance, in the sacrificial system, certain offerings were to be consumed entirely, while others allowed for portions to be eaten by the priests or the offerer. Leviticus 7:15-17 states, "The meat of the sacrifice of his peace offering of thanksgiving must be eaten on the day he offers it; he must not leave any of it until morning. If, however, the sacrifice he offers is a vow or a freewill offering, it may be eaten on the day he presents his sacrifice, but anything left over may be eaten on the next day." This regulation underscores the importance of consuming what is necessary and the sanctity of the offerings.

The account of the manna in the wilderness also highlights the concept of leftovers. In Exodus 16, God provided manna for the Israelites with specific instructions not to keep any of it until morning, except on the Sabbath. Exodus 16:19-20 records, "Then Moses said to them, 'No one may keep any of it until morning.' But they did not listen to Moses; some people left part of it until morning, and it became infested with maggots and began to smell. So Moses was angry with them." This narrative illustrates the lesson of trusting in God's daily provision and the consequences of disobedience.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the theme of leftovers is prominently featured in the miracles of Jesus, particularly in the feeding of the multitudes. In the account of the feeding of the five thousand, Jesus multiplies five loaves and two fish to feed a large crowd. After everyone had eaten, the disciples collected the leftovers. John 6:12-13 states, "And when everyone was full, He said to His disciples, 'Gather the pieces that are left over, so that nothing will be wasted.' So they collected them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten." This miracle not only demonstrates Jesus' divine power and compassion but also emphasizes the value of stewardship and the avoidance of waste.

Similarly, in the feeding of the four thousand, recorded in Matthew 15:37 , "They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over." The collection of leftovers in these miracles signifies God's abundant provision and the importance of recognizing and preserving His blessings.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the concept of leftovers in the Bible can be seen as a reflection of God's abundant provision and the call to responsible stewardship. The collection and preservation of leftovers serve as a reminder of God's generosity and the need to manage resources wisely. It also highlights the principle of gratitude, recognizing that what remains is still a gift from God and should be treated with respect and care.

In a broader sense, the biblical treatment of leftovers can be applied to various aspects of life, encouraging believers to trust in God's provision, avoid wastefulness, and be mindful of how they use and share their resources.4052. perisseuo -- to be over and above, to abound
... has an abundance (1), have an abundance (3), have more than enough (1), having
abundance (1), increasing (1), lavished (1), left over (4), leftover (1), live ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4052.htm - 9kLeftover (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Leftover (2 Occurrences). John 6:12 When they were
filled, he said to his disciples, "Gather up the broken ...
/l/leftover.htm - 6k

Left-handed (3 Occurrences)
Left-handed. Lefthanded, Left-handed. Leftover . Easton's Bible Dictionary ...
(See NIV). Lefthanded, Left-handed. Leftover . Reference Bible.
/l/left-handed.htm - 8k

Leg (24 Occurrences)

/l/leg.htm - 19k

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