Leviticus 6:15

And he shall take of it his handful, of the flour of the meat offering, and of the oil thereof, and all the frankincense which is upon the meat offering, and shall burn it upon the altar for a sweet savour, even the memorial of it, unto the Lord.

Leviticus 6:15 (KJV)

Context

The book of Leviticus is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible, traditionally attributed to Moses. Leviticus focuses on the laws and regulations given to the Israelites, particularly the Levites, concerning worship, sacrifices, and priestly duties. This verse falls within a section that provides instructions for the grain offering, called the “meat offering” in the King James Version, which was one of the primary offerings presented to God in the tabernacle or later in the temple.

Meaning

The verse refers to the “meat offering” or “grain offering,” an offering of fine flour mixed with oil and topped with frankincense. It was a non-blood sacrifice, symbolizing gratitude, devotion, and dedication to God. The priest was to take a handful of the flour and oil, along with all the frankincense, and burn it upon the altar. This act of burning represented the worshipper offering the best of what they had to God, acknowledging His worthiness and sovereignty.

The burning of the offering produced a “sweet savour,” a pleasing aroma to the Lord. It signified the acceptance of the worshipper’s devotion and was a visible sign of the desire for communion with God. The oil symbolized anointing and consecration, while frankincense was a costly aromatic resin used in worship, underscoring the preciousness of the offering.

The verse also refers to the offering as a “memorial” unto the Lord. This memorial aspect highlights the idea of remembrance. The offering served as a perpetual reminder of God’s faithfulness, the worshipper’s commitment, and the covenant relationship between God and His people. The remainder of the offering belonged to the priests and was eaten in a holy place, signifying the sanctity of their role and the separation between the sacred and the common.

Biblical connections

The grain offering expressed gratitude and dedication to God as the giver of all, and it presupposed atonement for sin and self-dedication, often accompanying other offerings. For Christians, the ceremonial laws of Leviticus are fulfilled and superseded by Christ’s sacrificial death, yet the passage teaches enduring principles of consecration, purity, and reverence in worship.

Application

Although we may not offer grain sacrifices today, we can learn from the principles behind this verse and apply them in our daily lives as we seek to honor and worship God.

• Gratitude and Dedication: The meat offering represents an attitude of gratitude and dedication to God. We can apply this principle in our lives by presenting our talents, resources, and ourselves as living sacrifices to God.

• Worship and Communion: The act of burning the offering as a “sweet savour” signifies the desire for communion with God. As believers, we can approach God through prayer, praise, and worship, desiring to fellowship with Him and honor His presence.

• Remembrance: The meat offering being a “memorial” reminds us to continually remember God’s faithfulness, His covenant, and the redemption we have through Jesus Christ. It encourages us to reflect on God’s goodness and offer our lives as living memorials to Him.

Reflection

The memorial portion reminds believers that all good things come from the Lord and that He is pleased with offerings offered in sincerity. As you consider this passage, reflect on what you can present to God as an offering of gratitude and dedication, and how you can live as a sweet savor before Him.