Leviticus 6:20

KJV

This [is] the offering of Aaron and of his sons, which they shall offer unto the LORD in the day when he is anointed; the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a meat offering perpetual, half of it in the morning, and half thereof at night.

KJV (with Strong's)

This is the offering {H7133} of Aaron {H175} and of his sons {H1121}, which they shall offer {H7126} unto the LORD {H3068} in the day {H3117} when he is anointed {H4886}; the tenth part {H6224} of an ephah {H374} of fine flour {H5560} for a meat offering {H4503} perpetual {H8548}, half {H4276} of it in the morning {H1242}, and half {H4276} thereof at night {H6153}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"This is the offering for ADONAI that Aharon and his sons are to offer on the day he is anointed: two quarts of fine flour, half of it in the morning and half in the evening, as a grain offering from then on.

Berean Standard Bible

“This is the offering that Aaron and his sons must present to the LORD on the day he is anointed: a tenth of an ephah of fine flour as a regular grain offering, half of it in the morning and half in the evening.

American Standard Version

This is the oblation of Aaron and of his sons, which they shall offer unto Jehovah in the day when he is anointed: the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a meal-offering perpetually, half of it in the morning, and half thereof in the evening.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 6:20 meticulously outlines the unique and perpetual grain offering required for Aaron and his high priestly successors, to be presented on the day of their anointing and continued daily thereafter. This specific instruction underscores the profound sanctity and continuous dedication demanded by the priestly office, symbolizing an unceasing commitment to the LORD through the offering of the finest flour, presented in two equal parts, morning and night, and entirely consumed by fire as a testament to complete consecration.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a distinct section of Leviticus (chapters 6-7) that provides supplementary instructions to the priests concerning the various offerings previously outlined in chapters 1-5. While chapters 1-5 primarily focus on the types of offerings and their general procedures from the perspective of the offerer, chapters 6-7 delve into the specific priestly duties associated with these sacrifices, including their portions, handling, and unique requirements. Leviticus 6:20-23 specifically addresses the unique grain offering ("minchah") for the high priest on the day of his anointing, differentiating it from other grain offerings by its perpetual nature and the stringent requirement that it be entirely burned on the altar, with no portion eaten by the priests. This instruction immediately follows the law of the burnt offering for the priests and precedes the law of the sin offering, emphasizing the high priest's personal and continuous consecration as foundational to his ability to perform all subsequent sacrificial duties for the people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The act of anointing Aaron and his sons marked their formal induction into the priesthood, setting them apart for sacred service to Yahweh. This ritual, often involving the pouring of oil upon the head, was a powerful symbol of divine appointment, consecration, and the impartation of God's Spirit for a specific task, as seen in the anointing of kings (e.g., [1 Samuel 10:1](/1_samuel/10-1 "1 Samuel 10:1 - Saul's Anointing")) and prophets (e.g., [1 Kings 19:16](/1_kings/19-16 "1 Kings 19:16 - Elisha's Anointing")) as well. For the high priest, this anointing was a once-in-a-lifetime event, initiating a lifelong covenant of service. The "tenth part of an ephah" (approximately 2.2 liters or 2 quarts) was a standard and manageable daily measure, indicating a consistent, rather than overwhelming, offering. The requirement for a "perpetual" offering, split between morning and night, mirrored the daily communal offerings (like the [daily burnt offering](/exodus/29-42 "Exodus 29:42 - The Daily Burnt Offering")), signifying the continuous nature of worship and the priest's unceasing dedication and dependence on God for their sustenance and authority.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes within Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Consecration and Holiness**, emphasizing that those set apart for God's service, particularly the high priest, must maintain a state of continuous holiness and dedication. The offering itself is a tangible expression of this consecrated status. Secondly, the "perpetual" nature of the offering introduces the theme of **Continuous Devotion and Dependence**, underscoring that the high priest's relationship with God and his service are not episodic but an ongoing, daily commitment, acknowledging God as the source of his authority and sustenance. Finally, the unique requirement that this offering be "wholly burned" (as clarified in [Leviticus 6:23](/leviticus/6-23 "Leviticus 6:23 - High Priest's Offering Wholly Burned")) reinforces the theme of **Total Surrender and Exclusive Service**, signifying that the high priest's life and ministry are entirely for the LORD, with no portion reserved for personal gain or consumption, unlike other offerings (e.g., [Leviticus 2:3](/leviticus/2-3 "Leviticus 2:3 - Priest's Portion of Grain Offering")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Offering (Hebrew, _qorbân'_):** This term (H7133) refers to "something brought near the altar, i.e., a sacrificial present." While the KJV translates it as "offering," in this specific context, it is qualified by "meat offering" (H4503, _minchâh_), which more precisely denotes a "grain offering" or "tribute." The broader term _qorbân_ emphasizes the act of drawing near to God through a presented gift, highlighting the intentionality and sacred purpose of the high priest's daily act of devotion.
* **Anointed (Hebrew, _mâshach'_):** This verb (H4886) means "to rub with oil, i.e., to anoint; by implication, to consecrate." In a religious context, it signifies a divine appointment and setting apart for sacred service. The anointing of Aaron marked his formal, divine commissioning as the first high priest of Israel, imbuing him with the spiritual authority and holiness necessary to mediate between God and His people. This act transformed him from an ordinary man into a divinely commissioned servant, underscoring the sacredness and unique nature of his office.
* **Perpetual (Hebrew, _tâmîyd'_):** This word (H8548) signifies "continuance (as indefinite extension); constant (or adverbially, constantly)." Applied to this offering, it means that the high priest, from the day of his anointing onward, was to offer this specific grain offering every single day, without fail, morning and night. This "perpetual" nature underscores the unceasing dedication and continuous state of consecration required of the high priest, and the constant nature of his service and dependence before God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"This [is] the offering of Aaron and of his sons, which they shall offer unto the LORD in the day when he is anointed":** This clause establishes the specific individuals for whom this unique offering is prescribed (Aaron and his high priestly successors) and the precise timing of its initiation—the momentous day of their consecration. The phrase "his sons" indicates that this was a hereditary requirement for every subsequent high priest upon his anointing, ensuring the continuity of this sacred obligation throughout the generations of the Aaronic priesthood, marking their transition into a consecrated life of service.
* **"the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a meat offering perpetual":** This specifies the exact quantity and quality of the offering. A "tenth part of an ephah" (H374) was a modest but consistent amount, emphasizing regularity over sheer volume. "Fine flour" (H5560, _çôleth_) was the highest quality of flour, meticulously prepared and free from impurities, signifying that only the very best was acceptable for God's service, especially from His consecrated high priest. The term "meat offering" (H4503, _minchâh_) is better understood as "grain offering," and its "perpetual" (H8548, _tâmîyd_) nature highlights its daily, ongoing requirement, not merely a one-time event.
* **"half of it in the morning, and half thereof at night.":** This final clause details the daily rhythm of the offering. It was to be split into two equal portions, presented at the two primary times of daily communal sacrifice—morning (H1242, _bôqer_) and evening (H6153, _ʻereb_). This continuous, twice-daily ritual served as a constant reminder of the high priest's consecrated status, his dependence on God, and his ongoing commitment to the LORD's service, mirroring the daily rhythm of worship for the entire community and emphasizing an unceasing posture of devotion.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 6:20 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message regarding priestly consecration. **Symbolism** is prominently featured, with "fine flour" symbolizing purity, excellence, and the offering of one's very best to God, reflecting the holy nature of the high priest's office and the unblemished character required for divine service. The act of "anointing" itself is a powerful symbol of divine selection, consecration, and the impartation of spiritual authority, setting the high priest apart for his unique mediatorial role. The "perpetual" nature of the offering symbolizes the continuous, unwavering dedication required of the high priest, indicating a constant state of readiness and service before the LORD. Furthermore, the division of the offering into "half... in the morning, and half... at night" is a classic example of **Merism**, a literary device where two contrasting parts represent the whole, thereby emphasizing the unceasing and comprehensive nature of this priestly duty, covering the entirety of the high priest's day. The instruction for this specific offering, distinct from others by its complete burning (as clarified in subsequent verses), uses **Contrast** to highlight the unique and total dedication expected from the high priest compared to other offerings where portions were consumed by the priests.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly simple instruction for a daily grain offering for the high priest is rich with profound theological significance. It underscores the foundational principle that those who serve God, especially in positions of leadership and mediation, must first and foremost be consecrated to Him and maintain a continuous, personal devotion. The "perpetual" nature of the offering emphasizes the unceasing demand for holiness, faithfulness, and dependence on God in priestly service. It highlights that even the holiest individuals must continually offer themselves and their resources to the LORD, recognizing that their ability to serve flows from His anointing and provision. This offering was a constant, tangible reminder of the high priest's unique covenant relationship with God and the sacred responsibility entrusted to him to represent the people before a holy God, requiring a lifelong posture of humility and surrender.

* [Exodus 29:42](/exodus/29-42 "The Daily Burnt Offering")
* [Leviticus 8:12](/leviticus/8-12 "Aaron's Consecration")
* [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Living Sacrifice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Leviticus 6:20, though rooted in the ancient Levitical priesthood, offers profound principles for believers today, calling us to a life of continuous, consecrated devotion to the Lord. Just as the high priest's offering was "perpetual," our walk with God should be marked by daily intentionality—a consistent offering of our time, talents, and resources. The requirement of "fine flour" reminds us to offer our absolute best to God, not merely what is convenient or leftover. Our worship, service, and daily obedience should be characterized by excellence, purity, and wholeheartedness, reflecting the holiness of the God we serve. Furthermore, the daily rhythm of morning and night offerings speaks powerfully to the need for constant communion and dependence on God throughout our day, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His guidance in every aspect of our lives. This passage challenges us to move beyond sporadic acts of devotion to cultivate a lifestyle of sustained, heartfelt consecration, recognizing that our identity as God's people calls for an ongoing offering of ourselves as a spiritual act of worship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways can I cultivate a "perpetual" offering of my life to God, mirroring the daily rhythm of the high priest's devotion?**
* **What does "fine flour" signify for the quality of my service and worship to the Lord today? Am I offering Him my best, or merely what is convenient?**
* **How does the high priest's daily dependence on God, symbolized by this offering, inform my own reliance on Him for strength, wisdom, and guidance in all circumstances?**
* **Considering the unique nature of this offering (wholly burned), what areas of my life might God be calling me to offer completely to Him, holding nothing back for my own benefit or agenda?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "fine flour" in this offering?**

Answer: "Fine flour" (Hebrew: _solet_) was the highest quality of flour available in ancient Israel, meticulously sifted and free from impurities. Its use in this specific offering for the high priest signifies the absolute purity, excellence, and unblemished quality required for sacred service to God. It symbolizes that only the very best, unblemished and refined, is acceptable as an offering to the holy LORD, particularly from those consecrated to lead His people. This detail underscores the high standards of holiness, integrity, and dedication expected of the high priest in his personal life and public ministry, serving as a constant reminder of the reverence due to God.

**Why was this offering "perpetual" and wholly burned, unlike other grain offerings?**

Answer: The "perpetual" (Hebrew: _tamid_) nature of this offering, presented twice daily, emphasized the continuous and unending dedication required of the high priest from the day of his anointing onward. It was a constant reminder of his consecrated status and his unceasing responsibility to mediate before God, signifying that his service was a lifelong commitment, not a temporary assignment. Unlike most other grain offerings, from which the priests typically ate a portion as their sustenance (e.g., [Leviticus 2:3](/leviticus/2-3 "Priest's Portion of Grain Offering")), this specific offering was to be "wholly burned" on the altar (as explicitly stated in [Leviticus 6:23](/leviticus/6-23 "High Priest's Offering Wholly Burned")). This complete consumption by fire symbolized total dedication and surrender, indicating that the high priest's life and service were entirely for God, with no part reserved for personal benefit or consumption. It highlighted the unique and supreme holiness of the high priest's office and his complete dependence on God alone for his sustenance and authority.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 6:20, with its emphasis on the high priest's perpetual, perfect offering, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Aaronic high priest offered a daily, imperfect sacrifice of flour as a symbol of his ongoing consecration and dependence, Jesus, our great [High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus Our Great High Priest"), offered Himself once for all time—a perfect, unblemished sacrifice (cf. [Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice and Priesthood")). His life was the ultimate "fine flour" offering, perfectly pure and wholly dedicated to the Father, from His anointing by the Holy Spirit at His baptism (cf. [Matthew 3:16-17](/matthew/3-16-17 "Matthew 3:16-17 - Jesus' Baptism and Anointing")) to His final breath on the cross. The "perpetual" nature of the Levitical offering foreshadowed Christ's eternally effective priesthood (cf. [Hebrews 7:24](/hebrews/7-24 "Hebrews 7:24 - Christ's Permanent Priesthood")), through which He continually intercedes for us. As believers, we are now a "royal priesthood" (cf. [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), called to offer our lives as living sacrifices (cf. [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifice"))—a spiritual offering made possible by Christ's perfect and complete self-offering, which inaugurated a new and living way into God's presence (cf. [Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access Through Christ's Blood")).

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

Exodus 29:2

And unleavened bread, and cakes unleavened tempered with oil, and wafers unleavened anointed with oil: [of] wheaten flour shalt thou make them.

Exodus 16:36

Now an omer [is] the tenth [part] of an ephah.

Numbers 28:3

And thou shalt say unto them, This [is] the offering made by fire which ye shall offer unto the LORD; two lambs of the first year without spot day by day, [for] a continual burnt offering.

Exodus 29:35

And thus shalt thou do unto Aaron, and to his sons, according to all [things] which I have commanded thee: seven days shalt thou consecrate them.

Exodus 29:42

[This shall be] a continual burnt offering throughout your generations [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation before the LORD: where I will meet you, to speak there unto thee.

Hebrews 7:27

Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.

Leviticus 2:1

¶ And when any will offer a meat offering unto the LORD, his offering shall be [of] fine flour; and he shall pour oil upon it, and put frankincense thereon: