Leviticus 7:4

And the two kidneys, and the fat that [is] on them, which [is] by the flanks, and the caul [that is] above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away:

And the two {H8147} kidneys {H3629}, and the fat {H2459} that is on them, which is by the flanks {H3689}, and the caul {H3508} that is above the liver {H3516}, with the kidneys {H3629}, it shall he take away {H5493}:

the two kidneys, the fat on them near the flanks, and the covering of the liver, which he will remove with the kidneys.

both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which is to be removed with the kidneys.

and the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, which is by the loins, and the caul upon the liver, with the kidneys, shall he take away;

Commentary

Leviticus 7:4 continues the detailed instructions regarding the peace offering (also known as the fellowship offering) in the Mosaic Law. This specific verse outlines the internal organs and fat that were to be removed from the sacrificial animal and burned on the altar as a dedicated portion to the Lord.

Context of the Peace Offering

The peace offering, described extensively in Leviticus chapter 3 and further elucidated in Leviticus 7:1-36, was unique among the Israelite sacrifices. Unlike sin or burnt offerings, parts of the peace offering were eaten by the priests and the worshiper, signifying communion and fellowship with God and with one another. This verse specifies the parts that were exclusively God's portion, indicating the sacredness of these internal elements and the meticulous nature of the sacrificial system.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Holiness and Dedication: The burning of specific fatty parts and organs (kidneys, fat by the flanks, and the caul above the liver) on the altar symbolized the dedication of the animal's best and most vital parts to God. In ancient Israel, fat was often considered the richest and choicest part of an animal, thus representing the best of the offering.
  • God's Exclusive Portion: This instruction underscores that certain elements of the sacrifice were reserved solely for God, emphasizing His sovereignty and the sacred distinction between Him and humanity. It reinforced the idea that God deserved the prime portions.
  • Purity and Wholeness: The meticulous instructions for handling the animal's internal organs highlight the emphasis on purity and the complete dedication required in worship. The removal and burning of these specific parts contributed to the ritual cleansing and acceptance of the offering.

Linguistic Insights

The term "caul" in this verse refers to the yothereth (Χ™Χ•ΦΉΧͺΦΆΧ¨ΦΆΧͺ) in Hebrew, which is specifically the fatty membrane that covers the liver. The inclusion of the kidneys and the fat around them (often seen as vital organs) further emphasizes the offering of the animal's most essential and rich components. This aligns with the broader principle seen in the Old Testament where the fat and blood were generally considered God's property and were not to be consumed by the Israelites (see Leviticus 7:23 and Leviticus 3:17).

Practical Application and Reflection

While we no longer offer animal sacrifices, the principles behind these ancient laws remain relevant. Leviticus 7:4 reminds us of the importance of giving God our "best" – not just leftovers or what is convenient. It speaks to a heart of complete dedication and reverence. For the believer today, this translates to offering our lives as a "living sacrifice" (Romans 12:1), dedicating our talents, resources, and innermost being to Him. Just as the choicest parts were given to God, we are called to prioritize Him with our most valuable possessions and deepest devotion, recognizing His supreme worthiness.

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Cross-References

  • Leviticus 3:4

    And the two kidneys, and the fat that [is] on them, which [is] by the flanks, and the caul above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away.
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