Leviticus 7:33 – “The son of Aaron who offers the blood and the fat of the fellowship offering shall have the right thigh as his share.”
Extended Explanation
Leviticus 7:33 explains that the priest who performs the sacrificial duties, specifically offering the blood and fat of the fellowship offering, is entitled to receive the right thigh of the sacrificed animal as his share. This instruction is part of the broader system of offerings and sacrifices outlined in Leviticus, where portions of the sacrificial animals were designated for the priests. The right thigh, like the breast mentioned in previous verses, was a significant portion of the animal and was given as a reward for the priest’s service.
The verse highlights the principle that those who serve in the religious duties of the community are to be provided for by the offerings brought by the people. The priest’s role in handling the most sacred parts of the sacrifice—offering the blood, which represents life, and the fat, considered the best part—was crucial. In return for their service, they received a portion of the offering, ensuring they were supported in their ministry.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the sacrificial system was central to worship and the community’s relationship with God. The priests, descendants of Aaron, were responsible for conducting these sacrifices and maintaining the Tabernacle. Because the priests did not have land or other means of income like the other tribes, God established a system where they were provided for through the offerings of the people.
The right thigh of the fellowship offering was considered a valuable portion of the sacrifice. The priests were sustained by these portions, allowing them to focus on their spiritual duties. This system of provision ensured that those who dedicated their lives to serving God and the community were cared for and respected.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Leviticus 7:33 underscores the principle of provision for those who serve in ministry. The verse teaches that God values the service of those who dedicate their lives to His work and ensures they are provided for through the offerings of the people. This reflects God’s concern for justice and fairness, ensuring that the priests were not left without means of support.
Additionally, the verse emphasizes the sacred nature of the priestly duties. By giving the priests a portion of the offering, God acknowledged the importance of their role in mediating between Him and the people. The priest’s share of the offering symbolizes the mutual relationship between the worshiper and those who serve on their behalf.
Literary Analysis
Leviticus 7:33 is part of the detailed instructions regarding the handling of the fellowship offering, one of the many types of sacrifices described in Leviticus. The verse is structured to clearly define the priest’s entitlement, linking their service in offering the blood and fat with their receipt of the right thigh. This direct correlation between service and provision highlights the fairness of the system God established.
The verse uses straightforward language to ensure that the instructions are clear and unambiguous. The focus is on the practical aspects of worship and the provision for the priests, reinforcing the importance of following God’s commands precisely.
Biblical Cross-References
A relevant cross-reference is found in Numbers 18:8-11, where God outlines the portions of offerings that are to be given to the priests as their inheritance. This passage provides further context for the practice of supporting the priests through the offerings. Another important reference is 1 Corinthians 9:13-14, where Paul discusses the principle that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel, drawing a parallel to the provision for the priests in the Old Testament.
In Deuteronomy 18:3, the right thigh is again mentioned as part of the priestly portion, reinforcing the consistent application of this practice throughout Israel’s history.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Leviticus 7:33 serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting those who are dedicated to ministry. While the specific practice of offering a right thigh is no longer applicable, the principle of ensuring that those who serve in ministry are provided for remains relevant. This verse challenges believers to consider how they can contribute to the well-being of their pastors, missionaries, and others who serve in the church.
This verse also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the value of spiritual service. Just as the priests were given a portion of the sacrifices for their work, those who dedicate their lives to serving God today are worthy of support and respect.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 7:33 reflects God’s love in that He ensures provision for those who serve Him. By instructing the Israelites to give a portion of their offerings to the priests, God was taking care of those who had dedicated their lives to spiritual service. This command shows God’s concern for justice and fairness, ensuring that those who serve Him are not left without support.
God’s love is also evident in the way He involves the community in caring for the priests. This practice fostered a sense of responsibility and mutual support within the community, reflecting the communal nature of God’s relationship with His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Leviticus 7:33 connects to Jesus Christ in that Jesus, as the ultimate High Priest, offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of humanity. In the New Testament, Jesus is described as both the priest and the offering, fulfilling the sacrificial system established in the Old Testament. Hebrews 4:14-16 speaks of Jesus as the great High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses and provides for our spiritual needs.
Through Jesus, believers are called to a new kind of priesthood, where they offer themselves as living sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1). This verse encourages Christians to follow Jesus’ example of self-sacrifice and to support those who continue His work in the church today.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Leviticus 7:33 challenge you to think about supporting those who serve in ministry?
- In what ways can you offer something valuable to God as an expression of gratitude and devotion?
- How does this verse encourage you to view worship as not just a ritual but as an opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others?
- What can you learn from the connection between the Old Testament practices of providing for the priests and the New Testament teachings on supporting those who preach the gospel?