Leviticus 3:5
And Aarons sonnes shall burne it on the Altar vpon the burnt sacrifice, which is vpon the wood that is on the fire: it is an offering made by fire of a sweet sauour vnto the Lord. Leviticus 3:5 (KJV)
The book of Leviticus belongs to the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible traditionally ascribed to Moses. It records the laws and regulations that God gave to Israel through Moses concerning worship, ritual, and daily life. Chapter 3 is devoted to the regulations for the peace offering, also called the fellowship or well‑being offering.
The peace offering was a voluntary sacrifice presented to express gratitude, thanksgiving, or a desire for God’s favour and fellowship. It differed from the sin offering and the burnt offering in purpose and procedure.
Leviticus 3:5 instructs that the priest first places his hand on the head of the peace offering and slays the animal at the entrance of the tabernacle of the congregation. The sons of Aaron then burn the fat of the offering on the altar, as the LORD commanded, and they also burn it on the altar together with the burnt sacrifice. The burnt sacrifice refers to a separate animal that is wholly consumed by fire as a dedication to God.
The phrase “offering made by fire” underscores that the sacrifice was to be wholly burned on the altar. Throughout Scripture fire symbolizes purification, holiness, and the very presence of God. By consigning the offering to fire the animal was set apart and consecrated to the Lord.
The description of a “sweet savour unto the LORD” indicates that the aroma rising from the fire was pleasing to God. This highlights that the act was not merely physical but also a spiritual worship, expressing the worshiper’s desire to honor and please the Almighty.
Although these instructions belong to the Old‑Testament ceremonial law, the underlying principles remain relevant. The peace offering teaches believers to offer gratitude, seek fellowship with God, and honor Him with sincere hearts. Through Christ believers enjoy a deeper communion with God and are called to present themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to Him (Romans 12:1).
In summary, Leviticus 3:5 details the proper handling of the peace offering—hand upon the head, killing at the tabernacle door, burning the fat on the altar alongside the burnt sacrifice, and offering it by fire as a sweet savour to the LORD—thereby illustrating Israel’s yearning for communion with God and reminding us of the timeless call to worship Him with gratitude and devotion.
