Hebrews 10:6
In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
Original Language Analysis
ὁλοκαυτώματα
In burnt offerings
G3646
ὁλοκαυτώματα
In burnt offerings
Strong's:
G3646
Word #:
1 of 6
a wholly-consumed sacrifice ("holocaust")
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
2 of 6
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
περὶ
sacrifices for
G4012
περὶ
sacrifices for
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
Cross References
Matthew 3:17And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.Malachi 1:10Who is there even among you that would shut the doors for nought? neither do ye kindle fire on mine altar for nought. I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand.
Historical Context
The prophets repeatedly emphasized that God desires obedience over ritual (1 Samuel 15:22, Isaiah 1:11-17, Micah 6:6-8). The sacrificial system's inadequacy created hunger for the reality it foreshadowed - Christ's perfect sacrifice.
Questions for Reflection
- If God had no pleasure in the sacrifices He commanded, why did He command them?
- What does this teach about the difference between religious ritual and true heart worship?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Continuing the quotation: 'In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin You had no pleasure.' This doesn't mean God rejected the sacrifices He commanded, but that they weren't His ultimate purpose. They pointed beyond themselves to heart obedience and the perfect sacrifice to come. Reformed theology sees the ceremonial law as pedagogical and typological, valuable for its purpose but superseded by Christ's perfect obedience and sacrifice.