In the context of the Old Testament sacrificial system, the term "memorial portion" refers to a specific part of the offering that was burned on the altar as a reminder before God. This concept is primarily found in the book of Leviticus, where various offerings are described in detail. The memorial portion served as a symbolic act of remembrance, both for the worshiper and before God, signifying the worshiper's devotion and the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Biblical References

The concept of the memorial portion is most clearly articulated in Leviticus. In Leviticus 2:2, regarding the grain offering, it is written: "He shall bring it to Aaron’s sons the priests, and the priest shall take a handful of the fine flour and oil, together with all the frankincense, and burn the memorial portion on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD." . This passage highlights the act of burning a portion of the offering as a fragrant reminder to God.

Similarly, in Leviticus 6:15, concerning the grain offering, it states: "The priest is to take a handful of fine flour and olive oil, together with all the incense on the grain offering, and burn the memorial portion on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD." . This repetition underscores the importance of the memorial portion in the sacrificial rituals.

Theological Significance

The memorial portion serves several theological purposes. Firstly, it acts as a tangible expression of the worshiper's dedication and submission to God. By offering a portion of their produce or livestock, the Israelites acknowledged God's provision and sovereignty over their lives.

Secondly, the memorial portion functioned as a reminder to God of His covenant promises. While God does not forget, the act of offering a memorial portion symbolically called upon God to remember His covenantal relationship with Israel. This is seen in the broader context of the sacrificial system, which was designed to maintain and restore fellowship between God and His people.

Symbolism and Typology

From a typological perspective, the memorial portion can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Just as the memorial portion was a pleasing aroma to the Lord, Christ's sacrifice is described as a "fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" (Ephesians 5:2). The memorial portion, therefore, points to the greater reality of Christ's atoning work, which fully satisfies the requirements of the law and establishes a new covenant between God and humanity.

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, the concept of the memorial portion as a reminder can inspire a life of worship and dedication. While Christians are not bound by the Old Testament sacrificial system, the principle of offering one's best to God remains relevant. Believers are called to present their bodies as "a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1), living lives that continually honor and remember God's faithfulness and grace.

In summary, the memorial portion as a reminder in the Old Testament sacrificial system serves as a profound symbol of devotion, covenant remembrance, and foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice. It calls believers to a life of worship and dedication, continually reminding them of God's enduring faithfulness.