Leviticus 6:22 – “The son who is to succeed him as anointed priest shall prepare it. It is the Lord’s perpetual share and is to be burned completely.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Leviticus 6:22 provides instructions regarding the responsibilities of the priesthood, specifically the duties of the priest who would succeed his father. This verse indicates that the grain offering, which had been described in previous verses, is to be prepared by the son who takes on the role of the anointed priest. The offering is described as the Lord’s “perpetual share,” meaning it is an ongoing, never-ending obligation. Additionally, the offering is to be burned completely, signifying total dedication and the fact that this offering is wholly for God, with nothing left for human consumption.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the priesthood was a hereditary role, passed down from father to son within the family of Aaron. The anointing of a new priest marked the continuation of this sacred duty. The grain offering mentioned in this verse was part of the daily rituals that the priests were required to perform as a sign of their dedication to God. The idea of a “perpetual share” reflects the ongoing nature of these offerings, which were to be made every day, symbolizing the continuous worship and service to God that the priests were responsible for maintaining. The complete burning of the offering underscores the idea that certain offerings were set apart entirely for God, emphasizing His holiness and the reverence due to Him.
Theological Implications
Leviticus 6:22 emphasizes the idea of continuity in worship and service to God. The fact that the son who succeeds his father as priest must continue the offerings demonstrates the importance of maintaining a consistent and unbroken relationship with God across generations. This verse also highlights the total dedication required in service to God. By specifying that the offering is to be burned completely, the text underscores that some aspects of worship are wholly for God, reflecting His absolute sovereignty and the need for complete devotion in our relationship with Him.
Literary Analysis
This verse serves as both a command and a reminder of the responsibilities that come with the priesthood. The phrase “perpetual share” is key, as it reinforces the idea that these offerings are not temporary or occasional but are to be made continually, without interruption. The instruction that the offering is to be “burned completely” uses strong language to convey the seriousness of this command, leaving no room for partial obedience. The verse is part of a larger narrative that outlines the duties of the priests, and its precise language reflects the detailed and orderly nature of the Levitical laws.
Biblical Cross-References
Leviticus 6:22 can be connected to other parts of Scripture that emphasize the continuity of worship and the idea of complete dedication to God. For instance, in Numbers 18:8-19, God outlines the portions of the offerings that are to be given to the priests as their inheritance, showing the ongoing nature of their service. In Exodus 29:42, God describes the regular burnt offering as a “perpetual burnt offering throughout your generations,” echoing the language used in Leviticus 6:22. The idea of burning the offering completely also recalls the burnt offerings mentioned in Leviticus 1:9, where the entire animal was burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the Lord.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Leviticus 6:22 serves as a reminder of the importance of continuity in our relationship with God and the need for complete dedication in our service to Him. While we no longer offer grain sacrifices, the principle of offering God our best and dedicating certain aspects of our lives wholly to Him remains relevant. This verse challenges us to think about how we can maintain a consistent, lifelong commitment to God, not just in moments of crisis or celebration, but every day. It also encourages us to consider what it means to offer something “completely” to God, holding nothing back.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 6:22 reflects God’s love in His desire for a continuous relationship with His people. By establishing the practice of regular offerings, God provides a way for His people to maintain a close connection with Him, rooted in ongoing worship and service. This verse shows that God’s love is not fleeting or occasional but is constant and enduring, inviting us into a relationship that spans generations. God’s instruction to burn the offering completely also reflects His desire for our undivided devotion, reminding us that His love calls for a response of wholehearted commitment.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Leviticus 6:22 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who offered Himself completely as a sacrifice for our sins. Unlike the grain offerings that had to be repeated daily, Jesus’ sacrifice was once for all, fulfilling the requirements of the law and establishing a new covenant. In Hebrews 10:10, it says that “we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” Jesus’ complete and perfect offering on the cross fulfills the principle of total dedication to God, making it possible for us to live in continuous relationship with Him through faith.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you apply the principle of complete dedication to God in your own life?
- What does it mean for you to offer something “completely” to God, holding nothing back?
- How does the continuity of the priestly duties in Leviticus 6:22 challenge you to maintain a consistent relationship with God?
- In what ways can you reflect the love and commitment of God in your daily life, following the example set by Jesus?
Leviticus 6:22 challenges us to live lives of complete dedication and consistency in our relationship with God. It reminds us of the importance of offering our best to God, reflecting His constant and enduring love, and points us to the ultimate example of total dedication in Jesus Christ, who gave Himself fully for us.