Exodus 29:22

Also thou shalt take of the ram the fat and the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul [above] the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that [is] upon them, and the right shoulder; for it [is] a ram of consecration:

Also thou shalt take {H3947} of the ram {H352} the fat {H2459} and the rump {H451}, and the fat {H2459} that covereth {H3680} the inwards {H7130}, and the caul {H3508} above the liver {H3516}, and the two {H8147} kidneys {H3629}, and the fat {H2459} that is upon them, and the right {H3225} shoulder {H7785}; for it is a ram {H352} of consecration {H4394}:

Also take the fat from the ram, the fat tail, the fat that covers the inner organs, the two kidneys, the fat covering them and the right thigh - for it is a ram of consecration -

Take the fat from the ram, the fat tail, the fat covering the entrails, the lobe of the liver, both kidneys with the fat on them, and the right thigh (since this is a ram for ordination),

Also thou shalt take of the ram the fat, and the fat tail, and the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul of the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and the right thigh (for it is a ram of consecration),

Commentary

Exodus 29:22 details specific parts of the "ram of consecration" that were to be offered to the Lord during the ordination ceremony for Aaron and his sons. This verse is part of God's meticulous instructions for establishing the Levitical priesthood, highlighting the sacredness and precision required in approaching Him.

Context of Exodus 29:22

This verse is found within Exodus chapter 29, which outlines the detailed procedures for the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests to serve the Lord. Following the construction of the Tabernacle, these instructions were crucial for establishing the proper worship and sacrificial system in ancient Israel. The "ram of consecration" was a specific offering, distinct from other sacrifices, symbolizing the complete dedication and installation of the priests into their holy office. The selection of specific fatty parts and organs, along with the right shoulder, was not arbitrary but divinely commanded, emphasizing the sanctity of the offering.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Holiness and Consecration: The meticulous instructions for the ram's offering underscore the absolute holiness of God and the need for those who serve Him to be set apart. Every detail, from the animal to the specific parts, communicated a deep reverence for the divine.
  • Divine Instruction and Obedience: God's precise commands regarding which parts of the ram were to be offered demonstrate the importance of strict obedience in worship. This reflects a foundational principle of the Mosaic Law, where adherence to God's word was paramount.
  • Symbolism of the Offering: The fat was considered the richest part of the animal, often reserved for God in sacrifices (see Leviticus 3:16-17). Offering the fat and specific internal organs symbolized giving the very best and most valuable to the Lord, signifying complete dedication. The "right shoulder" was likely a priest's portion in other offerings, but here, it's included in the burnt offering for consecration, emphasizing total dedication.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "ram of consecration" translates from the Hebrew 'êl hammillu'im (אֵיל הַמִּלֻּאִים). The term millu'im literally means "fillings," referring to the "filling of the hands" of the priests. This action symbolized their ordination and the bestowal of authority and responsibility for their sacred duties, as their hands were metaphorically "filled" with the offerings they would present to God. It was a formal installation into their priestly office.

Practical Application

While we no longer offer animal sacrifices, Exodus 29:22 offers timeless principles. It reminds us of God's desire for our best in dedication and service. Just as the priests were consecrated through a precise and costly sacrifice, believers today are called to a life of consecration, offering themselves as a "living sacrifice" (Romans 12:1). This involves giving God our most valuable resources—our time, talents, and affections—in obedience to His will. The meticulousness of the Old Testament law ultimately points to the perfect and ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God, fulfilling the essence of all these ancient rituals.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Exodus 29:13

    And thou shalt take all the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul [that is] above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that [is] upon them, and burn [them] upon the altar.

  • Leviticus 7:32

    And the right shoulder shall ye give unto the priest [for] an heave offering of the sacrifices of your peace offerings.

  • Leviticus 7:33

    He among the sons of Aaron, that offereth the blood of the peace offerings, and the fat, shall have the right shoulder for [his] part.

  • Leviticus 9:19

    And the fat of the bullock and of the ram, the rump, and that which covereth [the inwards], and the kidneys, and the caul [above] the liver:

  • Leviticus 9:21

    And the breasts and the right shoulder Aaron waved [for] a wave offering before the LORD; as Moses commanded.

  • Numbers 18:18

    And the flesh of them shall be thine, as the wave breast and as the right shoulder are thine.

  • Leviticus 10:14

    And the wave breast and heave shoulder shall ye eat in a clean place; thou, and thy sons, and thy daughters with thee: for [they be] thy due, and thy sons' due, [which] are given out of the sacrifices of peace offerings of the children of Israel.
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