Topical Bible: The Ox: Laws Respecting: Fat of, not to be Eaten

◄ The Ox: Laws Respecting: Fat of, not to be Eaten ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, the ox is a significant animal, often associated with agricultural labor, sacrifice, and dietary laws. Among the various regulations concerning the consumption of animals, the prohibition against eating the fat of the ox is particularly noteworthy. This restriction is part of the broader dietary laws given to the Israelites, which are detailed in the Pentateuch.

Biblical References

The primary scriptural basis for the prohibition against eating the fat of the ox is found in the book of Leviticus. Leviticus 3:17 states, "This is a perpetual statute for the generations to come, wherever you live: You must not eat any fat or any blood." This command is part of the peace offerings, where specific instructions are given regarding which parts of the animal may be consumed and which are reserved for God.

Leviticus 7:23-25 further elaborates on this command: "Speak to the Israelites and say, ‘You are not to eat any of the fat of an ox, a sheep, or a goat. The fat of an animal found dead or torn by wild beasts may be used for any other purpose, but you must not eat it. If anyone eats the fat of an animal from which an offering by fire may be presented to the LORD, the one who eats it must be cut off from his people.’"

Theological Significance

The prohibition against consuming the fat of the ox and other sacrificial animals is deeply rooted in the theological framework of the Old Testament sacrificial system. The fat, considered the best part of the animal, was to be offered to God as a symbol of giving the finest to the Lord. By reserving the fat for the altar, the Israelites acknowledged God's sovereignty and holiness.

The command to refrain from eating fat also served as a constant reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people. It underscored the importance of obedience and reverence in worship, as well as the need to distinguish between the sacred and the common.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, fat was often regarded as a delicacy and a source of energy. The restriction against eating fat would have set the Israelites apart from their neighbors, reinforcing their identity as a people consecrated to God. This dietary law, along with others, was part of a broader system of holiness codes that governed various aspects of daily life, ensuring that the Israelites maintained ritual purity and distinctiveness.

Practical Implications

The command not to eat the fat of the ox had practical implications for the Israelites. It required them to carefully prepare their meat, ensuring that the fat was removed and properly disposed of or used for sacrificial purposes. This attention to detail in following God's laws was a tangible expression of their devotion and commitment to living according to His statutes.

In summary, the prohibition against eating the fat of the ox is a reflection of the broader theological and cultural principles that governed the lives of the Israelites. It highlights the importance of offering the best to God, maintaining ritual purity, and living in obedience to His commands.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 7:23
Speak to the children of Israel, saying, You shall eat no manner of fat, of ox, or of sheep, or of goat.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... writes that at Athens out of all the laws of [4776 ... a golden calf, and preferred an
Egyptian ox to the ... of sinners, I am to infer His wishes respecting ourselves. ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/book ii jerome answers the.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... a little more sleep"; and Presumption said, "Every fat[53] must ... way; therefore, I
doubt you will not be found ... men told Christian, that as to laws and ordinances ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
... the more ignorant of them are such as go to be executed, as the ox goes to ... It is
a people of no understanding; therefore he that made them will not have mercy ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm