(The Lord speaking is red text)
If he offer a lamb for his offering, then shall he offer it before the LORD.
If he brings a lamb for his offering, then he is to present it before ADONAI.
If he is presenting a lamb for his offering, he must present it before the LORD.
If he offer a lamb for his oblation, then shall he offer it before Jehovah;
If he offer{H7126} a lamb{H3775} for his offering{H7133}, then shall he offer{H7126} it before{H6440} the LORD{H3068}.
1. **Themes:**
- **Sacrifice and Atonement:** Leviticus 3:7 is part of the regulations concerning peace offerings, which are voluntary offerings made to God as an expression of thanksgiving or fulfillment of a vow. The act of offering a lamb reflects the theme of sacrifice as a means of atonement and communion with God.
- **Holiness and Reverence:** The instruction to offer the lamb "before the LORD" emphasizes the need for the worshiper to approach God with reverence and holiness, acknowledging God's sovereignty and presence in the sanctuary.
- **Community and Fellowship:** The peace offering was typically shared among the offerer, the priests, and sometimes family or friends, symbolizing fellowship and the sharing of blessings within the community.
2. **Historical Context:**
- **Mosaic Law:** Leviticus is part of the Pentateuch, traditionally attributed to Moses, and contains the law given to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. Leviticus 3:7 specifically is part of the detailed instructions regarding various types of offerings and sacrifices that were to be observed by the Israelites.
- **Wilderness Period:** The book of Leviticus is set during the time when the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness, before they entered the Promised Land. The laws and rituals outlined in the book were designed to create a distinct identity for the Israelites as a holy nation set apart for God.
- **Cultic Practice:** The verse reflects the priestly concerns of the time, focusing on the proper procedures for worship and sacrifice, which were central to the religious life of ancient Israel.
In summary, Leviticus 3:7 is a reflection of the religious and ritualistic practices of the ancient Israelites, emphasizing the importance of proper worship, sacrifice, and the maintenance of a holy community in relationship with God.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)