In the context of ancient Israelite worship, peace-offerings held a significant place within the sacrificial system outlined in the Old Testament. These offerings, known in Hebrew as "shelamim," were distinct from other types of sacrifices due to their communal and celebratory nature. Among the various purposes for which peace-offerings could be made, one notable category is the votive offering.

Definition and Purpose

A votive offering, in the context of peace-offerings, was a sacrifice made in fulfillment of a vow. This type of offering was a tangible expression of gratitude and commitment to God, often made in response to a divine favor or deliverance. The votive peace-offering was a way for the offerer to honor a promise made to God, acknowledging His faithfulness and provision.

Biblical Instructions

The instructions for peace-offerings, including votive offerings, are primarily found in the book of Leviticus. Leviticus 7:16 states, "If, however, the sacrifice he offers is a vow or a freewill offering, it is to be eaten on the day he presents his sacrifice, but anything left over may be eaten on the next day." This passage highlights the specific regulations regarding the consumption of the sacrificial meat, emphasizing the sacredness and time-bound nature of the offering.

Components of the Offering

The peace-offering, as a votive offering, involved the presentation of an unblemished animal from the herd or flock. The offerer would lay hands on the animal, symbolically transferring their intentions and gratitude to the sacrifice. The animal was then slaughtered, and its blood was sprinkled on the altar. Portions of the animal, such as the fat and certain organs, were burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 3:1-5).

Communal Aspect

Unlike other offerings that were entirely consumed on the altar, the peace-offering had a unique communal aspect. After the designated portions were offered to God, the remaining meat was shared among the offerer, the priests, and the community. This act of sharing symbolized fellowship and unity among the people and with God. It was a time of celebration and thanksgiving, reflecting the peace and reconciliation that the offering represented.

Spiritual Significance

The votive peace-offering underscored the importance of fulfilling vows made to God. It was a demonstration of the offerer's integrity and faithfulness, acknowledging God's role in their lives. The offering also served as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, highlighting themes of gratitude, devotion, and communal worship.

New Testament Reflection

While the specific practice of peace-offerings is not carried over into the New Testament, the principles underlying these offerings find fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. As the ultimate sacrifice, Christ embodies the peace and reconciliation that the peace-offerings symbolized. Believers are called to live lives of gratitude and commitment, offering themselves as living sacrifices in response to God's grace and mercy (Romans 12:1).

In summary, peace-offerings as votive offerings were a vital part of Israel's worship, reflecting a deep commitment to God and fostering communal harmony. Through these offerings, the Israelites expressed their gratitude and fulfilled their vows, celebrating the peace and provision granted by the Lord.Leviticus 7:16
But if the sacrifice of his offering be a vow, or a voluntary offering, it shall be eaten the same day that he offers his sacrifice: and on the morrow also the remainder of it shall be eaten:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Scriptural Types.
... its different subdivisions"thank-offering, votive offering, free-will ... Lev.7:11-16)"
a eucharistic offering. ... represented as paying his peace-offerings to God ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxxvii scriptural types.htm

Of Vows. The Miserable Entanglements Caused by Vowing Rashly.
... conduct him safely home from exile; and also in the ancient peace-offerings which
pious ... the office of a pious man thus to consecrate a votive offering to God ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 13 of vows the.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... 2 Kings 16:10-16, where Ahaz is described as offering sacrifice and ... unto Me, and
shalt sacrifice thereon thy burnt offerings and thy peace offerings, thy sheep ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

What is a peace offering / fellowship offering? | GotQuestions.org

What is a free will offering / freewill offering? | GotQuestions.org

What were the various sacrifices in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org

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