“And the remainder thereof shall Aaron and his sons eat: with unleavened bread shall it be eaten in the holy place; in the court of the tabernacle of the congregation they shall eat it.”
Context: Leviticus is the third book of the Bible and focuses primarily on the laws and regulations given to the Israelites by God through Moses. Leviticus 6:16 is part of the instructions regarding the offerings and sacrifices to be made in the tabernacle.
The Sacrificial System: In the preceding verses, God outlines various types of offerings, including the burnt offering, grain offering, sin offering, and guilt offering. These offerings were brought by the people to the priests as a means of atoning for their sins and expressing their devotion to God.
Consumption by the Priests: Leviticus 6:16 specifies that the remainder of certain offerings, including the grain offering, would be eaten by Aaron and his sons (the priests) in the holy place. This provision served as a means of sustenance for the priests since they did not have any land of their own to cultivate or inherit.
Symbolic Meaning: The consumption of the offering by the priests held symbolic significance. By partaking in the holy offerings, the priests were consecrating themselves to God and reaffirming their role as mediators between God and the people of Israel. It was a reminder of their sacred duty and the privilege of serving in the tabernacle.
Unleavened Bread: The verse specifically mentions that the offering would be eaten with unleavened bread. In the Bible, leaven often symbolizes sin or corruption. The use of unleavened bread in this context emphasizes the purity and holiness required in approaching God and participating in the sacrificial system.
Location of Consumption: The priests were to eat the remainder of the offering in the court of the tabernacle of the congregation. This location was a designated area within the tabernacle complex, signifying the separation between the sacred and the common. By consuming the offerings in this sacred space, the priests were reinforcing the sanctity of their role and the importance of maintaining proper reverence for God.
Application for Christians: As Christians, we no longer adhere to the ceremonial laws and regulations found in the Old Testament, including the sacrificial system described in Leviticus. Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross fulfilled and superseded those requirements. However, we can draw lessons from this passage, such as the importance of consecration, purity, and reverence in our worship and service to God.
Remember, studying the Bible within its historical and cultural context is essential to understand the significance of various passages.
