“It shall not be baken with leaven. I have given it unto them for their portion of my offerings made by fire; it is most holy, as is the sin offering, and as the trespass offering.”
Context: The book of Leviticus is part of the Torah, specifically the third book of the Old Testament. It contains detailed instructions given by God to the Israelites regarding various aspects of their worship, religious ceremonies, and daily life. Leviticus 6:17 is part of a larger section that outlines the regulations for the priests’ duties concerning the offerings and sacrifices presented to God.
Meaning and Themes:
- The Importance of Holiness: Leviticus emphasizes the holiness of God and the need for the people of Israel to approach Him with reverence and purity. The phrase “it is most holy” in this verse signifies that the offering given to the priests is set apart and dedicated to God, making it sacred. It underscores the idea that anything associated with God’s worship must be treated with utmost respect and sanctity.
- The Significance of Unleavened Bread: The instruction not to bake the offering with leaven (yeast) highlights the use of unleavened bread in certain offerings. Leaven symbolizes corruption, sin, and pride in the Bible. The absence of leaven in the offering indicates the need for purity and sincerity in approaching God. This requirement serves as a reminder that the people’s worship and devotion should be free from impurity and hypocrisy.
- The Role of the Priests: The verse mentions that the offering is given to the priests as their portion. It signifies the provision made for the priests from the offerings brought by the people. This reinforces the significance of the priesthood in Israel and their role as intermediaries between God and the people. It also highlights the responsibility of the priests to handle the holy things of God carefully and faithfully.
- Connection to Christ: While Leviticus primarily deals with the Israelite sacrificial system, it also points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Jesus is described as the sinless Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. The requirement for the offering to be without leaven finds fulfillment in Christ’s sinless nature. He became the perfect offering for the sins of humanity, providing a way for people to be reconciled with God.
Practical Application:
- Although Leviticus 6:17 is part of the ceremonial laws given specifically to the Israelites, there are some principles that we can draw from this verse for our lives today:
- Reverence and Holiness: Just as the Israelites were called to approach God with reverence and purity, we should also approach Him with awe and respect. Our worship and devotion should be marked by sincerity and a genuine desire to honor God in all we do.
- Sincerity in Worship: God desires authentic worship from His people. We should examine our hearts and ensure that our worship is not tainted by hypocrisy or insincerity. Our offerings of praise, thanksgiving, and service should come from a genuine desire to honor God.
- Jesus as the Perfect Offering: Reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the significance of His sinless life. His sacrifice fulfilled the requirements of the Old Testament sacrificial system, providing forgiveness and salvation for all who believe in Him. We can find hope and redemption in His finished work on the cross.
- Stewardship and Provision: Consider the principle of provision and stewardship seen in the portion given to the priests. Recognize that God has provided for us, and we are called to be faithful stewards of the resources and blessings He has given. We should use what we have been entrusted with to honor God and bless others.
Remember, as we study the Old Testament, it is essential to understand the context and how it relates to the overarching message of salvation and the person of Jesus Christ in the New Testament.
