Leviticus 8:20

And he cut the ram into pieces; and Moses burnt the head, and the pieces, and the fat.

And he cut {H5408} the ram {H352} into pieces {H5409}; and Moses {H4872} burnt {H6999} the head {H7218}, and the pieces {H5409}, and the fat {H6309}.

When the ram had been cut in pieces, Moshe made the head, the pieces and the fat go up in smoke.

He cut the ram into pieces and burned the head, the pieces, and the fat.

And he cut the ram into its pieces; and Moses burnt the head, and the pieces, and the fat.

Commentary

Leviticus 8:20 describes a crucial step in the detailed ordination ceremony of Aaron and his sons as priests. Following specific divine instructions, Moses prepares the "ram of consecration" by cutting it into pieces and burning its head, the pieces, and the fat upon the altar. This act is part of a complex ritual signifying the complete dedication and sanctification of the priests for their sacred service.

Context

The entire eighth chapter of Leviticus meticulously details the ceremony for consecrating Aaron and his sons to the priesthood. This elaborate ritual, performed at the Tabernacle, fulfills the precise commands given by God to Moses in Exodus 29. After a sin offering and a burnt offering, the ram mentioned in this verse serves as a special "ram of consecration" (Leviticus 8:22), unique in its purpose and handling, symbolizing the priests' full devotion and suitability for their holy office. Moses, acting as God's divinely appointed mediator, oversaw and performed each step of this sacred ordination process.

Key Themes

  • Total Consecration: The act of cutting the ram into pieces and burning specific parts signifies a complete offering and dedication of the priests to God's service. Unlike some other sacrifices where portions were eaten by the priests or offerers, the burning of these parts emphasizes a full surrender and sanctification for the priestly role.
  • Obedience and Ritual Purity: The precise and meticulous actions commanded by God and executed by Moses highlight the absolute necessity of strict obedience in worship. It underscores the high standards of purity and holiness required for those serving in God's immediate presence, demonstrating that God cares deeply about how His people approach Him.
  • Mediatorial Role of Moses: It is Moses, not Aaron, who performs these sacrificial acts, underscoring his unique and temporary role as God's appointed agent in establishing the priestly order and mediating the Old Covenant. This highlights the divine origin and authority behind the priesthood.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "burnt" in this context is qatar (קָטַר), which specifically means to cause smoke to ascend, often implying an offering made by fire that produces a pleasing aroma to God. This signifies divine acceptance and communion, distinguishing it from merely consuming something with fire (saraph, Χ©ΦΈΧ‚Χ¨Φ·Χ£).

Practical Application

While this ritual is specific to the Old Covenant priesthood, it offers timeless principles for believers today. It underscores the seriousness of serving God and the importance of presenting ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to Him. Just as Aaron and his sons were consecrated for specific service in the Tabernacle, Christians are called to a life of dedication and obedience, acknowledging God's meticulous standards for holiness in their service and worship. The detailed nature of the command reminds us that God's will is to be followed precisely, not according to human preference.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Leviticus 1:8

    And the priests, Aaron's sons, shall lay the parts, the head, and the fat, in order upon the wood that [is] on the fire which [is] upon the altar:
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