Leviticus 9:19

And the fat of the bullock and of the ram, the rump, and that which covereth [the inwards], and the kidneys, and the caul [above] the liver:

And the fat {H2459} of the bullock {H7794} and of the ram {H352}, the rump {H451}, and that which covereth {H4374} the inwards, and the kidneys {H3629}, and the caul {H3508} above the liver {H3516}:

and the fat of the ox and of the ram - the fat tail, the fat which covers the inner organs, the kidneys and the covering of the liver.

They also brought the fat portions from the ox and the ram—the fat tail, the fat covering the entrails, the kidneys, and the lobe of the liver—

and the fat of the ox and of the ram, the fat tail, and that which covereth the inwards, and the kidneys, and the caul of the liver:

Commentary

Leviticus 9:19 is part of the detailed instructions for the sacrificial offerings made during the inauguration of the Aaronic priesthood and the Tabernacle's service. This specific verse outlines which particular fatty portions of the bullock and ram were to be offered to the Lord by burning them on the altar, following the completion of the sin offering and burnt offering.

Context of Leviticus 9:19

Chapter 9 of Leviticus marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history: the first official sacrifices performed by Aaron and his sons as consecrated priests. After eight days of consecration (as detailed in Leviticus 8:33), this chapter describes Aaron's first acts in his priestly role, making offerings for himself, his family, and the entire congregation of Israel. The meticulous instructions for these sacrifices, including the specific parts of the animals to be offered, underscore the gravity and sanctity of approaching God. The burning of these fatty parts was central to the process, creating a "sweet savour" to the Lord (as mentioned in Leviticus 1:9).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Prescription and Order: The precise identification of "the fat of the bullock and of the ram, the rump, and that which covereth [the inwards], and the kidneys, and the caul [above] the liver" highlights God's absolute authority over worship. He dictates the terms of approach, emphasizing the need for obedience and order in religious service.
  • God's Portion and Holiness: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, fat was often considered the richest and most valuable part of an animal. By designating these fatty portions exclusively for burning on the altar, God claimed the best for Himself. This symbolizes His holiness and the requirement that Israel offer their choicest possessions and efforts in worship, acknowledging His supremacy.
  • Atonement and Consecration: These offerings, particularly the sin offering that precedes this verse, were crucial for the atonement of sins and the cleansing of the priests and the people. The burning of these specific parts was integral to the sacrificial ritual that cleansed and consecrated the Tabernacle and its ministers for divine service.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "fat" here is chelev (חֵלֶב), which consistently refers to the internal fat, often distinguished from the meat itself. It carries the connotation of richness and the finest part. The "rump" (Hebrew: alyah, אַלְיָה) specifically refers to the fat tail of certain breeds of sheep common in the Middle East, which was highly prized. The "caul above the liver" (Hebrew: yoteret al hakaved, יֹתֶרֶת עַל הַכָּבֵד) denotes a specific membrane, further illustrating the exacting detail required by God for these sacred offerings.

Practical Application

While the Old Testament sacrificial system has been fulfilled in Christ's perfect sacrifice on the cross (Hebrews 10:10), the principles behind Leviticus 9:19 remain relevant. This verse reminds believers today of the importance of offering our "best" to God, not just in material possessions, but in our time, talents, and devotion. It underscores that true worship is not casual but requires reverence, intentionality, and a heart dedicated to God's prescribed ways, living a life that is a "living sacrifice" (Romans 12:1).

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

Cross-References

  • Leviticus 3:16

    And the priest shall burn them upon the altar: [it is] the food of the offering made by fire for a sweet savour: all the fat [is] the LORD'S.

  • Leviticus 9:10

    But the fat, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver of the sin offering, he burnt upon the altar; as the LORD commanded Moses.

  • Leviticus 3:5

    And Aaron's sons shall burn it on the altar upon the burnt sacrifice, which [is] upon the wood that [is] on the fire: [it is] an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.

  • Leviticus 3:9

    And he shall offer of the sacrifice of the peace offering an offering made by fire unto the LORD; the fat thereof, [and] the whole rump, it shall he take off hard by the backbone; and the fat that covereth the inwards, and all the fat that [is] upon the inwards,
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