Leviticus 1 lays out the instructions for the burnt offering, the first of the five major types of sacrifices in the Israelite religious system. The chapter begins with God calling Moses and presenting him with the regulations regarding burnt offerings. The burnt offering is to be a male animal without any blemish, and it can be chosen from the herd or flock. The person bringing the offering is required to lay their hand upon the head of the animal, symbolizing the transfer of their sins onto the innocent creature. Afterward, the person is to kill the animal at the entrance of the tabernacle, and the priests are to sprinkle the blood on the altar.
The offering is then to be skinned, cut into pieces, and arranged on the altar, along with wood and fire. The sweet aroma of the burnt offering is said to be pleasing to the Lord. The chapter concludes with a reminder that these regulations are to be followed by all future generations of the Israelites.
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