Leviticus 7:3

And he shall offer of it all the fat thereof; the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards,

Leviticus 7:3 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the instructions for the trespass offering, also called the guilt offering. The Israelites brought such offerings to the tabernacle to make right what had been broken. In this command, God tells the offerer to present all the fat of the animal: the rump, or fat tail, and the fat that covers the inner organs.

In the ancient Near East, the fat was the choicest and richest part of the animal. The fat tail of sheep and rams was especially large and heavy, making it highly valued. By giving this portion to God, the people showed that He deserved the best, not the leftovers.

Meaning

The word “rump” refers to the fat tail, which was considered a delicacy. The fat covering the inwards was also seen as the finest part. God required that all this fat be offered to Him. This act had both practical and symbolic meaning. Practically, the fat was not to be eaten by the people; it was set apart for God alone. Symbolically, offering the fat demonstrated that the worshiper gave God the abundance and richness of the sacrifice.

This command also taught the people about obedience. God gave clear instructions, and they were to follow them precisely. Worship was not a matter of personal preference but of faithful response to God’s word.

Biblical connections

The same principle appears in other offerings. In the peace offering, the fat was also burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 3:3, 9). The burnt offering likewise required the fat to be offered (Leviticus 1:8). These repeated commands show that giving the best to God was a central part of Israelite worship.

The sacrificial system pointed forward to Jesus Christ, who offered Himself as the perfect and final sacrifice for sin. Through Him, believers are no longer bound by these ceremonial laws, but the principle of giving God our best remains.

Application

For Christians, this verse calls us to offer God the choicest parts of our lives. We can give Him our first and finest time, energy, and resources, not what is left over. This means honoring Him in our daily work, our worship, and our care for others.

It also reminds us that worship involves specific, obedient action. God’s instructions are given for our good and His glory. We should approach our service to Him with careful attention to what He has commanded.

Reflection

Consider what you offer to God. Do you give Him your best, or only what is convenient? The fat of the sacrifice was not to be kept back. In the same way, our devotion to God should not be partial or reluctant. He is worthy of our wholehearted dedication.

Studying Leviticus helps us understand God’s holiness and His desire for a people who worship Him rightly. While the old sacrifices are fulfilled in Christ, the heart behind them still speaks to us: give God the honor He deserves.