Leviticus 7:4

And the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, which is by the flanks, and the caul that is above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away:

Leviticus 7:4 (KJV)

Context

Leviticus 7:4 belongs to the instructions for the peace offering, also called the fellowship offering. This offering expressed gratitude, devotion, or a vow, and it symbolized communion with God. The verse tells the priest to take away the two kidneys, the fat on them and by the flanks, and the caul above the liver.

Meaning

In ancient Israel, the kidneys were seen as the seat of a person’s innermost thoughts and emotions. The fat was considered the choicest, best part of the animal. By removing these specific parts, God taught the people to offer their whole selves—thoughts, desires, and motives—to Him. The phrase “by the flanks” points to the large pieces of fat on the sides, and the “caul above the liver” is the lobe covering that organ. The priest’s action of taking these parts away emphasized that God alone deserved the innermost devotion and the best of what the worshiper had.

Biblical connections

The same language appears in Leviticus 3:4, 3:10, 3:15, and 4:9, showing a consistent pattern in the sacrificial system. This repetition underlines the importance of giving God the innermost affections and the choicest portions. As Christians, we are called to offer our bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), dedicating our entire selves to God. Just as the Israelites physically removed these parts, we must actively pursue holiness, allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal and remove impure thoughts or attitudes.

Application

Although the sacrificial system is no longer practiced, the spiritual principle remains. God desires wholehearted devotion and calls us to separate from anything that hinders our relationship with Him. We should examine our hearts, renewing our minds and aligning our thoughts with God’s Word (Romans 12:2). This verse reminds us to offer ourselves completely, seeking holiness, purity, and wholehearted devotion in every aspect of life.

Reflection

May we continually present ourselves as living sacrifices, dedicated and pleasing to Him, giving God the innermost and best of what we have.