Leviticus 7:36

Which the LORD commanded to be given them of the children of Israel, in the day that he anointed them, [by] a statute for ever throughout their generations.

Which the LORD {H3068} commanded {H6680} to be given {H5414} them of the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}, in the day {H3117} that he anointed {H4886} them, by a statute {H2708} for ever {H5769} throughout their generations {H1755}.

On the day they were anointed, ADONAI ordered that this be given to them by the people of Isra'el. It is their share forever through all their generations.

On the day they were anointed, the LORD commanded that this be given them by the sons of Israel. It is a permanent portion for the generations to come.

which Jehovah commanded to be given them of the children of Israel, in the day that he anointed them. It is their portion for ever throughout their generations.

Commentary

Leviticus 7:36 concludes a section detailing the portions of various sacrifices designated for the priests. This verse emphasizes the divine origin and perpetual nature of the provision for the Levitical priesthood, ensuring their sustenance as they served the LORD.

Context

Leviticus chapters 6 and 7 provide intricate instructions regarding different types of offerings: the burnt offering, grain offering, sin offering, trespass offering, and peace offering. Specifically, Leviticus 7:28-36 focuses on the priest's share from the peace offering, notably the wave breast and heave shoulder. These portions were not merely gifts but commanded provisions, ensuring the priests, who had no tribal land inheritance, were sustained in their sacred service. The phrase "in the day that he anointed them" directly points to the ceremonial ordination of Aaron and his sons, detailed in Leviticus chapter 8, marking the official commencement of their priestly duties and entitlements under the Old Testament law.

Key Themes

  • Divine Provision for Ministry: The verse highlights God's direct command for the children of Israel to support their spiritual leaders. This was not left to voluntary donations but established as a binding law, underscoring the importance of sustaining those dedicated to sacred service and the operation of the tabernacle.
  • Perpetual Ordinance: The phrase "a statute for ever throughout their generations" signifies the enduring nature of this command. It was an unchangeable law for the Mosaic covenant, ensuring the priesthood's sustenance would continue through all generations of Israel, reflecting God's faithfulness to His appointed servants.
  • Sacred Obligation: The giving of these portions was an act of obedience and worship for the people of Israel, acknowledging God's established order and their role in upholding it. It was a tangible expression of their participation in the sacrificial system and support for those who mediated between God and man.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "a statute for ever" translates the Hebrew choq olam (Χ—ΦΉΧ§ Χ’Χ•ΦΉΧœΦΈΧ). Choq refers to an established rule, decree, or ordinance, often with a sense of something divinely appointed or fixed. Olam signifies "eternity," "forever," or "long duration." Together, it conveys a perpetual, unchangeable, or enduring ordinance, emphasizing its binding nature for all future generations under the covenant regarding the priestly portions.

Practical Application

While the specific sacrificial system of the Old Testament has been fulfilled in Christ, the principle of supporting those who minister spiritually remains relevant. Just as the Levitical priests were to be sustained by the community they served, the New Testament also teaches the importance of providing for those who dedicate their lives to gospel ministry. 1 Corinthians 9:14 states, "Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel." This verse reminds us of God's consistent principle of providing for His servants through the generosity and obedience of His people. It encourages believers today to consider their role in sustaining spiritual leadership and ministries that faithfully proclaim God's word, recognizing it as a divine command and a privilege.

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Cross-References

  • Leviticus 8:12

    And he poured of the anointing oil upon Aaron's head, and anointed him, to sanctify him.

  • Leviticus 8:30

    And Moses took of the anointing oil, and of the blood which [was] upon the altar, and sprinkled [it] upon Aaron, [and] upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon his sons' garments with him; and sanctified Aaron, [and] his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him.

  • Exodus 40:13

    And thou shalt put upon Aaron the holy garments, and anoint him, and sanctify him; that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.

  • Exodus 40:15

    And thou shalt anoint them, as thou didst anoint their father, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office: for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.
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