Leviticus 22:29

KJV

And when ye will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving unto the LORD, offer [it] at your own will.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when ye will offer {H2076} a sacrifice {H2077} of thanksgiving {H8426} unto the LORD {H3068}, offer {H2076} it at your own will {H7522}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"When you offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving to ADONAI, you must do it in a way such that you will be accepted.

Berean Standard Bible

When you sacrifice a thank offering to the LORD, offer it so that it may be acceptable on your behalf.

American Standard Version

And when ye sacrifice a sacrifice of thanksgiving unto Jehovah, ye shall sacrifice it that ye may be accepted.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 22:29 provides specific instructions for the offering of a "sacrifice of thanksgiving" (Hebrew: _zevach todah_), emphasizing that it must be presented in a manner that ensures divine acceptance. While voluntary in its initiation, this offering was not arbitrary; it required the offerer's sincere intention and adherence to God's prescribed standards, signifying a profound expression of gratitude and a desire for fellowship with the LORD. This verse underscores the principle that true worship involves both a willing heart and an offering that meets God's holy requirements.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 22 is primarily concerned with the sanctity of the offerings presented to the LORD and the purity required of those who handle them, particularly the priests. The chapter begins by outlining strict regulations for priests concerning their handling of holy things and their participation in sacred meals, ensuring they do not profane God's name or His holy gifts (e.g., [Leviticus 22:1-16](/leviticus/22 "Leviticus 22:1-16 - Regulations for Priests")). Following this, the focus shifts to the animals themselves, detailing the unacceptability of blemished animals for any sacrifice (e.g., [Leviticus 22:17-25](/leviticus/22 "Leviticus 22:17-25 - Unacceptable Sacrifices")). Leviticus 22:29, therefore, falls within this broader discourse on acceptable sacrifices, specifically addressing the "sacrifice of thanksgiving." This offering is a sub-category of the peace offering (_zevach shelamim_), as detailed in [Leviticus 7:12-15](/leviticus/7 "Leviticus 7:12-15 - The Peace Offering of Thanksgiving"), which allowed for communal feasting and symbolized fellowship between God and the offerer. Unlike mandatory sin or burnt offerings, the thanksgiving offering was a spontaneous expression of gratitude, often in response to a specific deliverance or blessing.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, sacrifices were central to the covenant relationship between God and His people. They served multiple purposes: atonement for sin, expression of devotion, fulfillment of vows, and acts of thanksgiving. The concept of "thanksgiving" (_todah_) was deeply embedded in Israelite culture, extending beyond mere verbal acknowledgment to tangible expressions of gratitude. Offerings were not simply rituals but embodied the worshiper's heart and commitment. The peace offering, including the thanksgiving sacrifice, was unique in that a portion was returned to the offerer and consumed in a communal meal, often shared with family, friends, and the poor. This practice fostered a sense of community and celebrated God's provision and faithfulness. The emphasis on "at your own will" in [Leviticus 22:29](/leviticus/22-29 "Leviticus 22:29 - The Thanksgiving Offering") highlights a crucial aspect of Israelite worship: while God established the sacrificial system, He also desired genuine, heartfelt participation rather than mere mechanical adherence. This principle resonates with the broader prophetic critique of ritualism without righteousness, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 1:11-17](/isaiah/1 "Isaiah 1 - A Rebuke to Empty Ritualism") and [Amos 5:21-24](/amos/5 "Amos 5 - God's Rejection of Hypocritical Worship").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sacrifice of Thanksgiving (Hebrew, _zevach todah'_):** This specific term refers to a voluntary peace offering made to express gratitude for a blessing received, a deliverance experienced, or a prayer answered. Unlike sin offerings (for atonement) or burnt offerings (for general devotion), the _zevach todah_ was characterized by its joyful and spontaneous nature. It involved not only the animal sacrifice but also various kinds of unleavened bread, and the entire offering had to be consumed on the same day, emphasizing the immediacy and fullness of the thanks. It was a tangible, communal act of acknowledging God's goodness.
* **At your own will (Hebrew, לִרְצֹנְכֶם, _lirtzonkem'_):** This phrase is often translated as "for your acceptance" or "so that it may be accepted/favorable." While it implies voluntarism in the sense that the offering is initiated by the worshiper's desire to give thanks, its primary emphasis is on the *manner* of offering that renders it acceptable to God. It is not merely about the offerer's subjective desire, but about the offering meeting God's standards of purity and being presented with the right disposition, thereby securing divine favor and approval. The "will" here refers to the *outcome* of the offering – that it be pleasing and effective in God's sight – rather than simply the offerer's personal preference. This aligns with the preceding verses in [Leviticus 22](/leviticus/22 "Leviticus 22 - Holiness of Offerings"), which meticulously detail what constitutes an "acceptable" sacrifice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when ye will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving unto the LORD":** This opening clause establishes the specific type of offering being discussed—the _zevach todah_—and its divine recipient. The phrase "when ye will offer" (וְכִי תִזְבְּחוּ, _v'chi tizbechu_) indicates a conditional or voluntary act, setting it apart from commanded offerings. It highlights that the initiative for this particular sacrifice comes from the worshiper's heart, prompted by a desire to express gratitude to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel.
* **"offer [it] at your own will":** This concluding phrase dictates the crucial condition for the offering's efficacy. As explored in "Key Word Analysis," "at your own will" (_lirtzonkem_) means "for your acceptance" or "so that it may be accepted." It underscores that the offering, though voluntary, must be presented in a way that aligns with God's holy requirements, ensuring His approval and favor. This implies sincerity of heart, adherence to the prescribed rituals, and the offering of an unblemished animal, all contributing to its divine acceptance. It's not just about the act, but the spirit and manner in which the act is performed.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Leviticus 22:29 is **Emphasis**. The verse, though short, places significant emphasis on the *manner* and *disposition* required for the thanksgiving sacrifice to be pleasing to God. The repeated stress throughout [Leviticus 22](/leviticus/22 "Leviticus 22 - Laws Concerning Holiness") on "unblemished" animals and "acceptable" offerings culminates in this verse's use of "at your own will" (_lirtzonkem_), which serves as a final, crucial qualifier. This term is not merely about voluntarism but about achieving divine acceptance, thus emphasizing the worshiper's responsibility to present an offering that is truly pleasing and effective in God's sight. There is also an element of **Contrast** implied, distinguishing this voluntary, joy-filled offering from other more obligatory sacrifices (like sin offerings).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 22:29 profoundly illustrates that God desires not merely ritualistic observance, but worship that flows from a willing and grateful heart, offered in a manner that honors His holiness. The "sacrifice of thanksgiving" was a tangible expression of a worshiper's recognition of God's goodness and faithfulness, demonstrating that true worship encompasses both internal disposition and external adherence to divine standards. This principle transcends the Old Covenant sacrificial system, pointing to a timeless truth: God values sincerity, intentionality, and a joyful heart in all forms of worship and service. It reminds us that our offerings, whether material or spiritual, are ultimately for His acceptance and glory.

* [Hebrews 13:15](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15 - The Sacrifice of Praise")
* [Philippians 4:6](/philippians/4-6 "Philippians 4:6 - Thanksgiving in Prayer")
* [Psalm 50:14](/psalm/50-14 "Psalm 50:14 - Offering Thanksgiving to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The ancient command to offer a "sacrifice of thanksgiving" "at your own will" (meaning, for God's acceptance) remains profoundly relevant for believers today. While the physical animal sacrifices have ceased, the spiritual principles endure. We are called to cultivate a heart overflowing with gratitude, recognizing God's ceaseless blessings, provision, and deliverance in our lives. This gratitude should not be a passive emotion but an active expression, a "sacrifice of praise" that costs us something—whether it's our time, our resources, or our comfort. Our worship, our giving, and our service should stem from a genuine desire to honor God, not from compulsion or obligation. When we offer ourselves, our talents, and our treasures with a willing and joyful heart, seeking to please Him, our "offerings" become acceptable and fragrant in His sight. This verse challenges us to examine the disposition of our hearts in all spiritual disciplines, ensuring that our acts of devotion are truly for His acceptance and glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific blessings or deliverances in your life prompt you to offer a "sacrifice of thanksgiving" to the LORD?**
* **In what ways can you tangibly express your gratitude to God with a "willing heart" today?**
* **How does the idea of "offering it at your own will" (for God's acceptance) challenge your current approach to worship, giving, or service?**

### FAQ

**What does "at your own will" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: While it includes the idea of voluntarism (that the offering is not coerced), the primary meaning of "at your own will" (Hebrew: _lirtzonkem_) is "for your acceptance" or "so that it may be accepted." It signifies that the offering must be presented in a way that is pleasing and favorable to God, meeting His divine standards of purity and being offered with a sincere heart. It's about ensuring the offering is truly effective and gains God's approval, rather than just being a personal preference of the offerer. This is consistent with the surrounding regulations in [Leviticus 22](/leviticus/22 "Leviticus 22 - Laws of Holiness for Priests and Offerings") regarding acceptable sacrifices.

**Was the "sacrifice of thanksgiving" mandatory or voluntary?**

Answer: The "sacrifice of thanksgiving" (_zevach todah_) was primarily voluntary. Unlike sin offerings or guilt offerings which were often obligatory for specific transgressions, the thanksgiving offering was typically initiated by the worshiper as a spontaneous expression of gratitude for a blessing, a deliverance from danger, or the fulfillment of a vow. The phrase "when ye will offer" (KJV) or "when you offer" (ESV) in [Leviticus 22:29](/leviticus/22-29 "Leviticus 22:29 - The Thanksgiving Offering") implies this voluntary nature, though once the decision was made, the offering still had to adhere to strict divine protocols to be acceptable.

**How is this verse relevant to Christians today, since animal sacrifices are no longer practiced?**

Answer: While the literal animal sacrifice is obsolete due to Christ's ultimate sacrifice, the underlying principles of [Leviticus 22:29](/leviticus/22-29 "Leviticus 22:29 - The Thanksgiving Offering") remain profoundly relevant. Christians are called to offer "spiritual sacrifices" (1 Peter 2:5). This includes a "sacrifice of praise" (Hebrews 13:15), which is heartfelt thanksgiving and worship; generous and cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:7); and living a life of obedience and service as a "living sacrifice" (Romans 12:1). The emphasis on a willing heart and an offering that is acceptable to God continues to guide our spiritual devotion today.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 22:29, with its emphasis on a voluntary and acceptable sacrifice of thanksgiving, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament sacrificial system, including the _zevach todah_, foreshadowed the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice of Christ. Unlike the temporary animal offerings, which merely covered sin, Jesus' death on the cross was the complete and final atonement for humanity's sin, making perfect reconciliation possible (Hebrews 9:26-28). He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), the ultimate "sacrifice of thanksgiving" offered by God Himself for our redemption. Through His perfect obedience and selfless act, Christ offered Himself "at His own will" – a truly voluntary and supremely acceptable sacrifice to the Father, securing our eternal acceptance (Hebrews 10:10-14). Now, under the New Covenant, believers are no longer required to offer animal sacrifices, but are called to offer "spiritual sacrifices" through Christ (1 Peter 2:5). Our "sacrifice of praise" (Hebrews 13:15), our bodies presented as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), and our cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:7) are all expressions of thanksgiving made acceptable to God only through the merit of Christ. Our gratitude, prompted by His immeasurable grace, becomes our ongoing, Christ-centered "sacrifice of thanksgiving," offered in the Spirit, for God's glory.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 107:22

And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.

Psalms 116:17

I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD.

Amos 4:5

And offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving with leaven, and proclaim [and] publish the free offerings: for this liketh you, O ye children of Israel, saith the Lord GOD.

Leviticus 7:12

If he offer it for a thanksgiving, then he shall offer with the sacrifice of thanksgiving unleavened cakes mingled with oil, and unleavened wafers anointed with oil, and cakes mingled with oil, of fine flour, fried.

Leviticus 7:15

And the flesh of the sacrifice of his peace offerings for thanksgiving shall be eaten the same day that it is offered; he shall not leave any of it until the morning.

Hebrews 13:15

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of [our] lips giving thanks to his name.

Hosea 14:2

Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive [us] graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips.