Leviticus 9:20 – “These they laid on the breasts, and then Aaron burned the fat on the altar.”

Extended Explanation

Leviticus 9:20 continues the description of the sacrificial rituals performed by Aaron, the high priest, as part of the inauguration of the tabernacle worship system. In this verse, the fat portions of the sacrificed animals are placed on the breasts of the offerings, and Aaron burns the fat on the altar. The fat was considered the richest and most valuable part of the animal, symbolizing the best that the worshiper could offer to God. Burning the fat on the altar was an act of worship, showing reverence and dedication to God.

The breasts of the animal were significant because they were later given to the priests as their portion, symbolizing the sustenance provided by God through the sacrifices of the people. By placing the fat on the breasts and burning it, Aaron was fulfilling God’s specific instructions for the offering, ensuring that the sacrifice was acceptable and pleasing to God.

Historical Context

The book of Leviticus was given to the Israelites during their time in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. It contains detailed instructions on how the Israelites were to worship God and maintain their relationship with Him. The tabernacle, where these sacrifices took place, was the central place of worship for the Israelites, and the sacrificial system was a key part of their religious life.

Leviticus 9 records the first time Aaron and his sons performed their duties as priests after being consecrated. This chapter is significant because it establishes the procedures for the offerings and the role of the priests in leading the people in worship. The careful preparation and offering of the sacrifices, including the burning of the fat, were essential to maintaining the holiness and purity required in the worship of God.

Theological Implications

Leviticus 9:20 highlights the importance of offering the best to God. The fat, being the richest part of the animal, symbolizes the worshiper’s willingness to give their best to God in worship. This act of burning the fat on the altar represents the idea that God deserves the highest honor and the most valuable portions of what we have to offer.

This verse also emphasizes the role of the priests as mediators between God and the people. Aaron’s actions in following the prescribed rituals show the importance of obedience in worship and the need for careful adherence to God’s instructions. The sacrificial system, with its detailed procedures, points to the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement through sacrifice.

Literary Analysis

Leviticus 9:20 is part of a larger narrative that details the sacrificial rituals carried out by Aaron as the high priest. The verse is structured to emphasize the sequence of actions—laying the fat on the breasts and then burning it on the altar. This careful order reflects the importance of following God’s instructions exactly as given.

The verse’s focus on the fat and the breasts highlights the themes of dedication and sustenance. The act of burning the fat represents the worshiper’s complete devotion to God, while the breasts, later given to the priests, symbolize God’s provision for those who serve Him. The language is precise, underscoring the sacredness of the ritual and the care that was taken to honor God properly.

Biblical Cross-References

• Leviticus 3:3-5: Provides instructions for the fellowship offering, detailing how the fat is to be burned on the altar, giving context to its significance in the sacrificial system.
• Exodus 29:26-28: Describes how the breasts of the offering are to be given to the priests as their portion, connecting the ritual to the sustenance provided by God.
• Philippians 4:18: Paul refers to the gifts he received as a “fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God,” reflecting the idea of giving the best to God in worship.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Leviticus 9:20 serves as a reminder of the importance of giving our best to God in worship. The fat, representing the richest part of the sacrifice, symbolizes our need to offer God the best of what we have, whether it be our time, resources, or talents. This verse challenges us to examine our own lives and consider whether we are truly giving God our best in all that we do.

The verse also reminds us of the importance of following God’s instructions in our worship. Just as Aaron carefully followed the procedures laid out by God, we too are called to worship God in a way that is pleasing to Him, with hearts fully devoted and obedient to His will.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Leviticus 9:20 reflects God’s love in His desire for a relationship with His people that is based on honor, dedication, and reverence. By instructing the Israelites to offer the best portions of their sacrifices, God was teaching them the value of giving their best to Him. This reflects His love in inviting His people to approach Him with hearts that are fully committed and willing to honor Him with the best of what they have.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Leviticus 9:20 connects directly to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system. Just as the fat was considered the best part of the offering and was given to God, Jesus offered Himself as the perfect and most valuable sacrifice for our sins. His sacrifice was the ultimate expression of giving the best to God, and it was pleasing and acceptable to Him.

Hebrews 9:14 speaks of how Jesus, through the eternal Spirit, offered Himself unblemished to God, cleansing our consciences from acts that lead to death so that we may serve the living God. Jesus’ sacrifice is the ultimate example of giving the best to God, and it enables us to live lives that are dedicated and pleasing to Him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse challenge you to think about what you are offering to God in your daily life? Are you giving Him your best?
2. In what ways can you ensure that your worship and service to God reflect a heart fully devoted to Him?
3. How does understanding the connection between the Old Testament sacrifices and Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice deepen your appreciation for His work on the cross?
4. How can you live out the truth of this verse in your daily walk with God, knowing that He deserves the best of what you have to offer?

This verse encourages us to reflect on the importance of giving our best to God, the significance of honoring Him with our offerings, and the fulfillment of these truths in Jesus Christ, who is our perfect and final sacrifice.