Leviticus 7:34 – “From the fellowship offerings of the Israelites, I have taken the breast that is waved and the thigh that is presented and have given them to Aaron the priest and his sons as their perpetual share from the Israelites.”
Extended Explanation
Leviticus 7:34 explains that God has designated specific portions of the fellowship offerings—the breast and the right thigh—as the priests’ share. These parts were to be given to Aaron, the high priest, and his descendants as a perpetual provision. The breast was to be waved before the Lord as part of the ritual, symbolizing that it was being presented to God and then given back as a gift to the priests. The right thigh, already mentioned in the previous verse, was also given to the priests as a sign of their important role in the sacrificial system.
This verse highlights the importance of providing for the priests, who served as intermediaries between God and the people. Their livelihood depended on these portions of the offerings, as they did not have other means of income. This system ensured that the priests were supported by the community they served.
Historical Context
In the time of ancient Israel, the sacrificial system was central to the people’s worship and their relationship with God. The fellowship offering, also known as the peace offering, was a type of sacrifice where the worshiper, the priests, and God all shared in the offering. The fat and other select parts of the animal were burned on the altar as an offering to God, symbolizing the dedication of the best to Him. The breast and right thigh were given to the priests as their portion, while the remaining meat was consumed by the worshiper and their family in a communal meal.
The practice of giving specific portions of the offerings to the priests was part of God’s plan to sustain those who served in the Tabernacle. The priests, who were from the tribe of Levi, did not receive land like the other tribes, so their sustenance came from the offerings brought by the people. This system of provision was established by God to ensure that the priests could focus on their duties without worrying about their material needs.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Leviticus 7:34 underscores the principle of provision for those who serve in ministry. The verse reflects God’s care for the priests, ensuring that they are provided for through the offerings of the people. This provision was not just a temporary arrangement but a perpetual share, indicating the ongoing responsibility of the community to support those who serve in God’s house.
This verse also highlights the principle of giving back to God and to His servants. The portions of the offering given to the priests were a recognition of their role in facilitating the people’s relationship with God. It shows that worship involves both offering the best to God and supporting those who are dedicated to His service.
Literary Analysis
Leviticus 7:34 is part of a detailed set of instructions regarding the handling of sacrifices. The verse is structured to clearly communicate the allocation of specific portions of the offerings to the priests. The use of the phrase “I have taken” emphasizes that this provision is ordained by God Himself, giving it a divine mandate that the people were expected to honor.
The verse also uses the word “perpetual,” indicating that this provision was not temporary but was to continue throughout the generations. This underscores the enduring nature of God’s commands and the importance of maintaining the practices He established for His people.
Biblical Cross-References
A relevant cross-reference is 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 of the people. 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 7:34 serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting those who are dedicated to ministry. While the specific practice of offering a breast and 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 encourages Christians to reflect on the importance of giving back to God. Just as the Israelites were commanded to offer portions of their sacrifices, believers today are called to give generously of their resources, time, and talents in service to God and His work.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 7:34 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 caring for 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 7:34 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 7:34 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?