Leviticus 7:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Leviticus 7:3
3 And he shall offer of it all the fat thereof; the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards,
Chapter Context
Leviticus 7 is a legal and ritual chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, sacrifice, judgment. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The ritual systems addressed were designed to distinguish Israel from surrounding Canaanite practices.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Leviticus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Leviticus 7:3
3 And he shall offer of it all the fat thereof; the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards,
Analysis
And he shall offer of it all the fat thereof; the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards,
This verse falls within the section on Further Offering Regulations. Additional laws concerning offerings, including prohibitions on eating fat and blood, establishing boundaries for holy things.
The access to God's presence that Leviticus carefully regulated is now freely available through Christ's blood, tearing the veil and opening the way to God.
Historical Context
Additional laws concerning offerings, including prohibitions on eating fat and blood, establishing boundaries for holy things. Leviticus was given to Israel at Mount Sinai, shortly after the tabernacle's construction described in Exodus. The name 'Leviticus' (from Latin Leviticus, referring to the Levites) reflects its focus on priestly duties, though the Hebrew title Wayyiqra ('And He called') emphasizes God's initiative in revealing these laws. The first seven chapters detail the five main offerings, providing both worshiper instructions and priestly procedures. Ancient Near Eastern cultures had various sacrificial systems, but Israel's sacrificial worship was unique in its ethical foundation, monotheistic framework, and emphasis on atonement rather than appeasement. Unlike pagan rituals focused on manipulating deities, Israel's sacrifices acknowledged God's sovereignty and sought reconciliation based on His gracious provision. Ancient texts like the Code of Hammurabi show that law codes were common in the ancient Near East, but biblical law uniquely grounded ethics in God's character rather than merely social convention.
Reflection
- What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
- How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?
- How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 29:13