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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Leviticus 1:10–17.
Here we have the laws concerning the burnt-offerings, which were of the flock or of the fowls. Those of the middle rank, that could not well afford to offer a bullock, would bring a sheep or a goat; and those that were not able to do that should be accepted of God if they brought a turtle-dove or a pigeon. For God, in his law and in his gospel, as well as in his providence, considers the poor. It is observable that those creatures were chosen for sacrifice which were most mild and gentle, harmless and inoffensive, to typify the innocence and meekness that were in Christ, and to teach the innocence and meekness that should be in Christians. Directions are here given, 1. Concerning the burnt-offerings of the flock, Lev 1:10. The method of managing these is much the same with that of the bullocks; only it is ordered here that the sacrifice should be killed on the side of the altar northward, which, though mentioned here only, was probably to be observed concerning the former, and other sacrifices. Perhaps on that side of the altar there was the largest vacant space, and room for the priests to turn them in. It was of old observed that fair weather comes out of the north, and that the north wind drives away rain; and by these sacrifices the storms of God's wrath are scattered, and the light of God's countenance is obtained, which is more pleasant than the brightest fairest weather. 2. Concerning those of the fowls. They must be either turtle-doves (and, if so, "they must be old turtles," say the Jews), or pigeons, and, if so, they must be young pigeons. What was most acceptable at men's tables must be brought to God's altar. In the offering of these fowls, (1.) The head must be wrung off, "quite off," say some; others think only pinched, so as to kill the bird, and yet leave the head hanging to the body. But it seems more likely that it was to be quite separated, for it was to be burnt first. (2.) The blood was to be wrung out at the side of the altar. (3.) The garbages with the feathers were to be thrown by upon the dunghill. (4.) The body was to be opened, sprinkled with salt, and then burnt upon the altar. "This sacrifice of birds," the Jews say, "was one of the most difficult services the priests had to do," to teach those that minister in holy things to be as solicitous for the salvation of the poor as for that of the rich, and that the services of the poor are as acceptable to God, if they come from an upright heart, as the services of the rich, for he accepts according to what a man hath, and not according to what he hath not, Co2 8:12. The poor man's turtle-doves, or young pigeons, are here said to be an offering of a sweet-smelling savour, as much as that of an ox or bullock that hath horns or hoofs. Yet, after all, to love God with all our heart, and to love our neighbour as ourselves, is better than all burnt-offerings and sacrifices, Mar 12:33.
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Summary
Leviticus 1:13 meticulously details a critical step in the preparation of a burnt offering from the flock, mandating the washing of the animal's internal organs and legs with water before the priest presents and burns the entire offering upon the altar. This precise ritual underscores the divine demand for absolute purity and wholeness in worship, symbolizing the offerer's complete dedication and the comprehensive expiation of sin. The culminating description of the offering as "a burnt sacrifice, an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD" signifies God's gracious acceptance and pleasure in a sacrifice offered in strict obedience to His commands, thereby re-establishing and affirming the covenant relationship between the holy God and His people.
Context
Literary Context
Leviticus 1:13 is situated within the foundational instructions for the 'olah, or burnt offering, which opens the book of Leviticus. This chapter, as the inaugural section of the sacrificial laws, establishes the most comprehensive offering, symbolizing total dedication and atonement for general sin. The preceding verses delineate the process for offerings from the herd (Leviticus 1:3), while verse 10 transitions to regulations for offerings from the flock (sheep or goats, Leviticus 1:10). Verse 13 specifically elaborates on the preparation of the flock animal, following its slaughter and flaying, emphasizing the internal cleansing required before the complete consumption of the sacrifice on the altar. This meticulous sequence highlights the divine order and the escalating steps of purification necessary to approach a holy God.
Historical & Cultural Context
Sacrificial systems were widespread in the ancient Near East, but Israel's system, as revealed by Yahweh, was distinct due to its ethical monotheism and profound emphasis on holiness. The concept of ritual purity was paramount in Israelite worship, directly stemming from God's own absolute holiness and His command for His people to reflect that holiness (Leviticus 11:44). The washing of the animal's internal organs and legs was not merely for hygienic purposes but carried profound symbolic weight, representing the internal and external cleansing required of both the offering and, implicitly, the offerer. It ensured that the sacrifice was presented without blemish or impurity, reflecting the moral and spiritual state expected in approaching a holy God. The priest's role was indispensable, acting as God's designated intermediary to ensure the offering's proper execution according to divine decree, thereby maintaining the integrity of the covenant relationship between Yahweh and Israel (Exodus 19:5).
Key Themes
Leviticus 1:13 contributes significantly to several key themes woven throughout the book of Leviticus and the Pentateuch. The most prominent is Holiness, as the detailed requirements for purity in the offering reflect God's unblemished character and the necessity for His people to approach Him in a state of ritual and moral cleanliness. This verse also underscores the theme of Atonement, as the burnt offering, wholly consumed, served as a means of propitiation for sin, restoring fellowship. Furthermore, the meticulous instructions highlight Obedience to God's revealed will, emphasizing that acceptable worship is not self-invented but divinely prescribed. The concept of a "sweet savour" also introduces the theme of Divine Acceptance, signifying God's pleasure and approval of a sacrifice offered in faith and according to His commands, a concept first seen in Noah's sacrifice after the flood (Genesis 8:21).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term refers to the nearest part or center, specifically the internal organs or entrails of the animal. In the context of sacrifice, the washing of the inwards signifies a thorough cleansing that extends beyond the external appearance to the very core of the being. It symbolizes the necessity of internal purity and integrity when approaching a holy God, suggesting that true worship must originate from a clean heart and hidden motives, not merely outward conformity.
This primitive root means "to smoke" or "to turn into fragrance by fire," especially as an act of worship. It implies the process of causing the sacrifice to ascend in smoke to God. In the context of the burnt offering, this word emphasizes the complete consumption of the animal by fire, symbolizing total dedication and the comprehensive nature of the atonement, as the entire offering "goes up" to God.
Composed of H5207 (nîychôwach, meaning "restful" or "pleasant," abstractly "delight") and H7381 (rêyach, meaning "odor" or "scent"). This phrase is a recurring theological idiom in the Old Testament, literally "a soothing aroma." It does not imply that God literally smells the smoke, but rather that the sacrifice, offered in obedience and faith according to His commands, is acceptable and pleasing to Him. It signifies divine approval, satisfaction, and the restoration of fellowship, indicating that the offering has achieved its intended purpose of propitiation and reconciliation.
Verse Breakdown
"But he shall wash the inwards and the legs with water"
This initial command underscores the meticulous preparation and the profound emphasis on ritual purity required for the burnt offering. The washing of both the internal organs ("inwards") and the limbs used for movement ("legs") symbolizes a purification that extends to the entirety of the being—both the hidden motivations and the visible conduct. It highlights God's absolute holiness and the necessity for the offerer, represented by the sacrifice, to approach Him with integrity and a cleansed state, both internally and externally.
"and the priest shall bring [it] all, and burn [it] upon the altar"
Following the purification, the priest, acting as the divinely appointed intermediary, takes the prepared animal. The instruction to "bring it all" and "burn it upon the altar" is crucial, distinguishing the burnt offering ('olah) from other sacrifices. It signifies that the entire animal, with the exception of the hide, is consumed by fire, ascending as smoke to God. This complete consumption symbolizes total dedication, unreserved surrender, and the comprehensive nature of the atonement, indicating that nothing is withheld from God.
"it [is] a burnt sacrifice, an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD."
This concluding declaration defines the nature and the divine acceptance of the offering. It reiterates its identity as an 'olah, an offering entirely consumed by fire, signifying its unique purpose of total dedication and comprehensive atonement. Crucially, it is declared to be "of a sweet savour unto the LORD," a theological idiom signifying God's gracious acceptance and pleasure. This divine approval confirms that the offering has effectively achieved its purpose of propitiation and reconciliation, satisfying divine justice and restoring the relationship between the offerer and God.
Literary Devices
Leviticus 1:13 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound theological meaning. Symbolism is central, with the act of washing the inwards and legs symbolizing the necessity of internal and external purity in approaching a holy God. The complete burning of the sacrifice on the altar is powerful symbolism for total dedication, unreserved surrender, and the comprehensive nature of atonement for sin. The phrase "sweet savour unto the LORD" functions as a form of anthropomorphism (attributing human characteristics, specifically the sense of smell, to God) and a theological idiom, signifying divine acceptance, pleasure, and satisfaction rather than a literal olfactory experience. Furthermore, the entire ritual, with its meticulous instructions, functions as a type, foreshadowing the ultimate, perfect, and once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The detailed nature of the commands also reflects Divine Precision, emphasizing the importance of obedience and adherence to God's revealed will in worship.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Leviticus 1:13 profoundly illustrates the foundational theological truths of God's absolute holiness, the pervasive nature and seriousness of sin, and the necessity of a divinely appointed means of atonement and reconciliation. The demand for meticulous purity in the offering, both internal and external, reflects God's unblemished character and the inherent unsuitability of anything defiled in His holy presence. The complete consumption of the sacrifice signifies the total dedication required for true worship and the comprehensive nature of the covering for sin that the offering provides. Ultimately, the declaration of the offering as a "sweet savour" points to God's gracious provision and acceptance of a substitute, foreshadowing the perfect sacrifice that would truly satisfy divine justice and restore broken fellowship between humanity and God.
Reflection and Application
While the Old Testament sacrificial system has been perfectly fulfilled in Christ, the enduring principles embedded in Leviticus 1:13 remain profoundly relevant for believers today, guiding our understanding of worship, purity, and dedication. The command to wash the inwards and legs reminds us that God desires not merely outward acts of devotion but also internal purity, integrity, and a cleansed heart. Our worship must be holistic, encompassing both our visible actions and our hidden motives, reflecting a genuine transformation from within. The complete consumption of the burnt offering by fire challenges us to offer our entire lives—our time, talents, resources, relationships, and very selves—to God in total surrender and unreserved dedication. This is a call to a living sacrifice, where every aspect of our being is presented to Him as a pleasing offering. Through Christ, we are empowered to live lives that are a "sweet savour" to God, not through animal sacrifice, but through obedience, faith, and love, knowing that our acceptance and ability to please Him are secured by His perfect, finished work on the cross.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was it necessary to wash the inwards and legs of the animal in the burnt offering?
The washing of the inwards and legs was a crucial, divinely mandated step to ensure the ritual purity and symbolic wholeness of the offering. It was not merely for hygiene but carried deep theological significance. The "inwards" (internal organs) represented the inner being, the hidden thoughts, motives, and intentions, while the "legs" represented one's walk, conduct, or outward actions. This act underscored the absolute holiness of God and the requirement for complete purity—both internal and external—in anything presented to Him. It symbolized that the sacrifice, representing the offerer, was presented without any hidden or visible defilement, reflecting the moral and spiritual cleanliness expected in approaching a holy God.
What does "sweet savour unto the LORD" truly mean in the context of Old Testament sacrifices?
The phrase "sweet savour unto the LORD" (Hebrew: reakh nihoakh) is a profound theological idiom signifying God's divine acceptance, pleasure, and satisfaction in the sacrifice. It does not imply that God literally smells the smoke of the burning animal in a physical sense. Instead, it indicates that the offering, when presented according to God's precise commands and with the proper heart of obedience and faith, was deemed acceptable and effective for its intended purpose of atonement and reconciliation. It means that the offering brought satisfaction to God, demonstrating that the covenant relationship could be maintained and restored despite human sin. This concept is first introduced in the narrative of Noah's post-flood sacrifice, which was also described as a "sweet savour" to the LORD (Genesis 8:21).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Leviticus 1:13, with its emphasis on a pure, complete, and divinely accepted burnt offering, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. He is the true and perfect "Lamb of God" (John 1:29) who, unlike the temporary and repeated animal sacrifices, offered Himself "once for all" (Hebrews 7:27) for the sins of humanity. Just as the animal's inwards and legs were washed for ritual purity, Christ was inherently pure and without blemish, offering a life of perfect obedience and a sacrifice untainted by sin (1 Peter 1:19). His sacrifice on the cross was total and complete, mirroring the burnt offering's full consumption, signifying His unreserved dedication to fulfilling the Father's will and providing comprehensive atonement for all who believe (Hebrews 10:10). Most significantly, Christ's self-offering was the ultimate "sweet savour unto God," an infinitely pleasing aroma that perfectly satisfied divine justice and wrath, securing eternal redemption and restoring fellowship between God and humanity (Ephesians 5:2). Through Him, believers are now able to approach God with confidence, not through animal blood, but through the perfect, all-sufficient sacrifice of the Son (Hebrews 4:16).