” And the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, which is by the flanks, and the caul above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away.”
Leviticus is a book in the Old Testament that primarily deals with the laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses. It contains detailed instructions for various aspects of worship, sacrifices, and the priesthood. Leviticus 3 specifically focuses on the peace offering, also known as the fellowship offering or the offering of well-being.
In the peace offering, an individual would bring a male or female animal from the herd or flock to the tabernacle as an offering to God. This offering was an act of gratitude, devotion, or a vow made by the worshipper. It symbolized communion with God and fellowship with Him and was often shared as a meal between the worshipper, the priest, and their families.
Now, let’s look at the specific verse, Leviticus 3:4. This verse outlines what parts of the animal were to be presented as an offering:
“And the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, which is by the flanks, and the caul above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away.”
The verse mentions the kidneys, the fat on the kidneys, and the caul (or lobe) above the liver. These specific parts were to be taken from the animal and offered on the altar. The choice of these particular organs and fat suggests that they held significance in the ritual and had symbolic meaning.
In the Hebrew culture, the kidneys were associated with deep emotions and thoughts. The kidneys were believed to be the seat of a person’s innermost being, including their conscience and moral discernment. By offering the kidneys, the worshipper acknowledged the importance of giving their heartfelt devotion to God.
The fat that covered the kidneys was considered the choicest part of the animal, symbolizing the richness and abundance of the offering. It represented the best portion being dedicated to God as an expression of gratitude and reverence.
The caul above the liver is less understood, but it is believed to refer to a fatty lobe that covered the liver. This specific fat was also regarded as a valuable part of the offering, emphasizing the act of giving the best to God.
It is important to note that these instructions were given specifically to the Israelites under the Mosaic Law and were part of the ceremonial practices of the Old Covenant. The laws regarding sacrifices and offerings were fulfilled and completed in Jesus Christ, who became the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins in the New Testament. As Christians, we are no longer required to offer animal sacrifices, as our salvation is based on faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross.
However, studying the Old Testament and the laws prescribed therein can provide us with insights into the nature of God, His holiness, and the seriousness of sin. It also highlights the need for an atoning sacrifice, which Jesus fulfilled through His death and resurrection.
In conclusion, Leviticus 3:4 describes the specific parts of an animal that were to be offered as a peace offering to God. These parts held symbolic significance, representing devotion, abundance, and the act of giving the best to God. While these laws are no longer practiced in the same way, they serve as a reminder of the sacrificial system and point us to Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.
