Leviticus 7:13

KJV

Besides the cakes, he shall offer [for] his offering leavened bread with the sacrifice of thanksgiving of his peace offerings.

KJV (with Strong's)

Besides the cakes {H2471}, he shall offer {H7126} for his offering {H7133} leavened {H2557} bread {H3899} with the sacrifice {H2077} of thanksgiving {H8426} of his peace offerings {H8002}.

Complete Jewish Bible

With cakes of leavened bread he is to present his offering together with the sacrifice of his peace offerings for giving thanks.

Berean Standard Bible

Along with his peace offering of thanksgiving he is to present an offering with cakes of leavened bread.

American Standard Version

With cakes of leavened bread he shall offer his oblation with the sacrifice of his peace-offerings for thanksgiving.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 7:13 specifies a unique aspect of the peace offering when presented as a sacrifice of thanksgiving: the inclusion of leavened bread. While leaven typically symbolized sin or corruption and was prohibited in most offerings, its presence here highlights the distinctive nature of the thanksgiving offering as a communal meal of celebration and fellowship with God, acknowledging the worshiper's gratitude alongside their inherent human imperfection. This verse underscores the Mosaic Law's intricate distinctions between various sacrifices, each designed to express a particular dimension of humanity's relationship with the divine.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 7 continues the detailed instructions regarding the various types of offerings introduced in chapters 1-6. Specifically, verses 11-36 provide the regulations concerning the peace offering (also known as the fellowship offering, _zevach shlamim_). Within this section, verses 12-15 focus on the "sacrifice of thanksgiving" (_zevach todah_), a particular category of peace offering. Verse 13 builds directly on verse 12, which mandates the offering of unleavened cakes, wafers, and fried cakes. Verse 13 then introduces the singular exception of leavened bread, to be offered *in addition* to these unleavened items, emphasizing its distinct role within this specific expression of gratitude. The subsequent verses detail the consumption of the meat, mandating that it be eaten on the day of the offering, reinforcing the communal and celebratory nature of this sacrifice.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite worship, sacrifices were central to expressing devotion, seeking atonement, and maintaining covenant relationship with Yahweh. The peace offering was unique in that a significant portion was returned to the offerer and priests to be eaten, making it a communal meal. This was especially true for the thanksgiving offering, which was brought in response to a specific blessing, deliverance, or fulfilled vow, often after a time of distress or hardship. The general prohibition of leaven in most grain offerings (as seen in [Leviticus 2:11](/leviticus/2-11 "Leviticus 2:11 - Prohibition of Leaven in Grain Offerings")) stemmed from its association with fermentation and decay, often symbolizing sin or corruption, and its connection to the haste of the Exodus (unleavened bread for Passover). However, the inclusion of leavened bread in the thanksgiving offering was a deliberate exception. This leavened bread was not burned on the altar but consumed by the participants, signifying that it was part of the celebratory meal rather than an atoning element. This practice likely reflected the common, everyday bread of the people, allowing for a more complete and joyful expression of gratitude in fellowship with God and community.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Leavened Bread (Hebrew, _chametz'_):** This term refers to bread made with yeast, allowing it to rise. Its inclusion here is highly significant because, in many other sacrificial contexts—particularly grain offerings ([Leviticus 2:11](/leviticus/2-11 "Leviticus 2:11 - Prohibition of Leaven")) and the Passover meal ([Exodus 12:15](/exodus/12-15 "Exodus 12:15 - Removing Leaven for Passover"))—leaven was strictly forbidden, often symbolizing sin, corruption, or impurity. Its presence in the thanksgiving offering, however, points to a different symbolic meaning: perhaps representing the ordinary, everyday nature of life, or even the inherent imperfection of the worshiper, brought into the presence of God not for atonement, but for joyful communion and gratitude. It was consumed by the participants, not offered on the altar.
* **Sacrifice of Thanksgiving (Hebrew, _zevach todah'_):** This specific phrase denotes a peace offering brought as an expression of gratitude. The Hebrew word _todah_ (תּוֹדָה) means "thanksgiving," "praise," or "confession." It implies a spontaneous outpouring of praise and acknowledgment for God's goodness, often in response to a specific act of deliverance, healing, or provision. Unlike other peace offerings (vow offerings or freewill offerings), the _zevach todah_ had unique regulations, such as the requirement to consume the meat on the same day, emphasizing the urgency and immediacy of expressing gratitude.
* **Peace Offerings (Hebrew, _shelamim'_):** The broader category of offerings to which the thanksgiving sacrifice belongs. The term _shelamim_ (שְׁלָמִים) is closely related to _shalom_ (שָׁלוֹם), meaning "peace," "wholeness," "completeness," or "well-being." These offerings were characterized by communion, fellowship, and reconciliation between God and the worshiper. They were not primarily for atonement of sin but for expressing devotion, fulfilling vows, or, as in this case, celebrating God's goodness and enjoying fellowship with Him. The communal meal aspect of the _shelamim_ underscores this theme of shared peace and communion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Besides the cakes,"**: This phrase connects directly to the preceding verse ([Leviticus 7:12](/leviticus/7-12 "Leviticus 7:12 - Thanksgiving Offering Details")), which specifies that the thanksgiving offering must include unleavened cakes, wafers, and fried cakes. The "besides" indicates an *addition* to these unleavened elements, not a replacement.
* **"he shall offer [for] his offering leavened bread"**: This is the core instruction of the verse, mandating the inclusion of leavened bread. The word "offer" (Hebrew, _qarab_) implies bringing near to God, though in this context, the leavened bread was not consumed by fire on the altar but by the participants, signifying its role in the communal meal rather than as a burnt offering.
* **"with the sacrifice of thanksgiving"**: This clause explicitly identifies the specific type of peace offering for which leavened bread is permitted. It clarifies that this unique allowance is tied directly to the expression of gratitude and praise, distinguishing it from other peace offerings (vow or freewill offerings).
* **"of his peace offerings."**: This final phrase reiterates the overarching category of the sacrifice, reinforcing that the thanksgiving offering is a particular manifestation of the broader peace offering, emphasizing its communal and fellowship-oriented nature.

#### Literary Devices
The instruction in Leviticus 7:13 employs several literary devices to convey its unique significance. The most prominent is **Contrast** or **Juxtaposition**. By explicitly permitting leavened bread here, the text creates a stark contrast with the repeated prohibition of leaven in other offerings, particularly the grain offerings ([Leviticus 2:11](/leviticus/2-11 "Leviticus 2:11 - Prohibition of Leaven")) and the Passover ritual ([Exodus 12:15](/exodus/12-15 "Exodus 12:15 - Removing Leaven for Passover")). This contrast highlights the distinct purpose and nature of the thanksgiving offering, shifting the focus from purity for atonement to joyful communion. **Symbolism** is also heavily at play; while leaven often symbolizes sin, its inclusion here for consumption by the worshipers suggests a different layer of meaning—perhaps representing the ordinary, unpurified elements of daily life, or even the inherent imperfection of the worshiper, which is nonetheless acceptable in the context of heartfelt gratitude and fellowship with God. The very act of "offering" and "eating" the bread carries **Ritual Significance**, emphasizing the participatory and communal aspects of this particular sacrifice, distinguishing it from offerings solely consumed by fire on the altar.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 7:13 profoundly illustrates that worship is not solely about atonement for sin but also about expressing profound gratitude and enjoying fellowship with God. The allowance of leavened bread in the thanksgiving offering, a stark contrast to its prohibition elsewhere, suggests that while God demands holiness, He also welcomes His people in their everyday reality, even with their inherent imperfections, when they approach Him with sincere hearts of praise. This offering was a communal meal, signifying peace and shared joy between God, the priests, and the offerer, underscoring that true worship involves both reverent awe and intimate communion. It teaches us that our thanksgiving is a vital component of our relationship with the Divine, an act that brings us into deeper fellowship.

* [Psalm 107:22](/psalm/107-22 "Psalm 107:22 - Offering Sacrifices of Thanksgiving")
* [Hebrews 13:15](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15 - The Sacrifice of Praise")
* [Philippians 4:6](/philippians/4-6 "Philippians 4:6 - Prayer with Thanksgiving")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Leviticus 7:13 invites us to consider the depth and breadth of our own expressions of gratitude to God. Just as the ancient Israelite brought a tangible offering, including the everyday leavened bread, we are called to offer our whole selves—our joys, our struggles, our successes, and even our imperfections—as a "sacrifice of thanksgiving." This verse reminds us that genuine gratitude is not reserved for moments of pristine spiritual perfection but can be offered in the midst of our ordinary lives, acknowledging God's constant provision and faithfulness. It challenges us to move beyond a transactional view of faith to embrace a relational one, where fellowship and communion with God are celebrated through acts of heartfelt praise. Our worship should be a holistic response to God's goodness, recognizing that even our flawed expressions of thanks are acceptable when offered with a sincere heart.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways can I cultivate a more consistent and holistic attitude of thanksgiving in my daily life?**
* **How does the allowance of leavened bread in this offering challenge my understanding of God's acceptance of me, imperfections included, in worship?**
* **What are tangible "sacrifices of thanksgiving" that I can offer to God today, beyond mere words?**
* **How can I foster a greater sense of communal fellowship and shared gratitude within my faith community, reflecting the spirit of the peace offering?**

### FAQ
**Why is leavened bread allowed in the thanksgiving offering when it's forbidden in many other sacrifices?**

Answer: The allowance of leavened bread in the thanksgiving offering (Leviticus 7:13) is a significant exception to the general rule found in passages like [Leviticus 2:11](/leviticus/2-11 "Leviticus 2:11 - Prohibition of Leaven in Grain Offerings") and during Passover ([Exodus 12:15](/exodus/12-15 "Exodus 12:15 - Removing Leaven for Passover")), where leaven often symbolized corruption or sin. This distinction highlights the unique nature of the thanksgiving offering. Unlike sin offerings or burnt offerings, which focused on atonement or complete dedication, the thanksgiving offering was a communal meal of celebration and fellowship. The leavened bread was not placed on the altar to be consumed by fire, but rather eaten by the priests and the offerer. Its inclusion likely symbolized the ordinary, everyday bread of the people, signifying that even in their common, imperfect state, they could approach God with gratitude and enjoy fellowship with Him. It emphasized the joy and normalcy of a celebratory meal rather than the strict purity required for atonement.

**What is the deeper significance of the "sacrifice of thanksgiving"?**

Answer: The "sacrifice of thanksgiving" (_zevach todah_) was a specific type of peace offering brought to express gratitude for God's blessings, deliverance, or fulfilled vows. Its significance lies in its emphasis on praise and acknowledgment of God's goodness, often in response to a specific act of divine intervention (e.g., deliverance from danger, healing from sickness). Unlike other offerings that might be prompted by sin or a general desire for fellowship, the _todah_ was a direct, joyful response to God's faithfulness. The requirement to eat the meat of this offering on the same day ([Leviticus 7:15](/leviticus/7-15 "Leviticus 7:15 - Consumption of Thanksgiving Offering")) underscored the urgency and immediacy of expressing gratitude, preventing any delay that might diminish the freshness of the praise. It served as a powerful reminder that worship involves not only seeking God's favor but also celebrating His active presence and provision in one's life.

**How does this Old Testament practice relate to Christian worship today?**

Answer: While Christians no longer offer animal sacrifices, the principles behind the thanksgiving offering remain highly relevant. The emphasis on gratitude, fellowship, and communal celebration in Leviticus 7:13 finds its fulfillment and transformation in Christian worship. We are called to offer "sacrifices of praise" ([Hebrews 13:15](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15 - The Sacrifice of Praise")) and to approach God with thanksgiving in prayer ([Philippians 4:6](/philippians/4-6 "Philippians 4:6 - Prayer with Thanksgiving")). The communal meal aspect is echoed in the Lord's Supper (Communion), where believers gather to remember Christ's sacrifice and experience fellowship with Him and one another. The allowance of leavened bread, symbolizing acceptance of imperfection in gratitude, can remind us that God welcomes us as we are, through Christ, when we come with sincere hearts of thanks, not relying on our own perfection but on His grace.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 7:13, with its unique allowance of leavened bread in the thanksgiving offering, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. While leaven often symbolized sin, its presence here, consumed in a communal meal of gratitude, foreshadows how God, in Christ, embraces humanity in its fallen state, not for atonement through our own merit, but for fellowship through His perfect sacrifice. Jesus himself is the ultimate "peace offering" ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")), whose body was broken as the "bread of life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), making true communion with God possible. Unlike the Old Testament offerings which could only temporarily cover sin, Christ's singular, perfect sacrifice on the cross fully atoned for our "leaven" of sin, allowing us to approach God with boldness and thanksgiving, not based on our own purity, but on His righteousness ([Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). The communal meal of the thanksgiving offering is beautifully fulfilled in the Lord's Supper, where believers partake of bread and wine, remembering Christ's body and blood, and celebrating their fellowship with Him and one another, a perpetual "sacrifice of praise" ([Hebrews 13:15](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15 - The Sacrifice of Praise")) offered through Him. In Christ, our imperfect thanksgiving, offered from our ordinary lives, is made perfectly acceptable to God.

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.