All the heaue offerings of the holy things, which the children of Israel offer vnto the Lord, haue I giuen thee and thy sonnes, and thy daughters with thee, by a statute for euer: it is a couenant of salt for euer, before the Lord vnto thee, and to thy seed with thee. Numbers 18:19 (KJV)
Context: The book of Numbers is primarily concerned with the organisation and administration of the Israelite community during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this verse God is speaking to Aaron, the high priest, and his descendants, outlining the instructions regarding the offerings and their role in the priesthood.
Heave offerings: The heave offerings mentioned here refer to a specific type of offering that was lifted upward, or waved before the Lord, as a way of dedicating it to Him. These offerings were presented by the children of Israel and were to be given to Aaron and his priestly descendants.
Holy things: The “holy things” mentioned in the verse refer to the various offerings and sacrifices that were designated as sacred and set apart for God’s service. They included portions of animal sacrifices such as the breast and right thigh, as well as grain offerings, firstfruits, and other items consecrated to the LORD.
Covenant of salt: The phrase “covenant of salt” signifies a perpetual and binding agreement. In ancient Near Eastern culture salt was a symbol of preservation, purity, and durability. By describing the covenant as a “covenant of salt,” God emphasizes its everlasting nature and unbreakable character.
Forever: The covenant established between God, Aaron, and his descendants was intended to be permanent, ensuring that Aaron’s family would always receive a portion of the offerings brought by the people of Israel. This covenant demonstrates God’s provision for the priests and their continued role as mediators between the people and Himself.
Spiritual significance: The covenant of salt not only has a literal application to the priestly line of Aaron but also carries symbolic meaning. Salt’s preservative properties represent the enduring nature of God’s promises, serving as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision.
Application: While the specific instructions of the Old Testament priesthood do not apply directly to Christians today, this passage highlights principles such as God’s faithfulness, the importance of honoring Him with our offerings, and the value of making and keeping covenants with Him.
In summary, Numbers 18:19 conveys God’s establishment of a perpetual covenant with Aaron and his descendants, ensuring their provision through the offerings of the Israelites. The “covenant of salt” symbolizes the everlasting nature of God’s promises. As Christians we can learn from this passage about God’s faithfulness, our responsibility to honor Him with our offerings, and the importance of making and keeping covenants with Him.
