### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yôthereth**, represented by `{{H3508}}`, refers to the **caul**, which is defined as the lobe or flap of the liver. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the context of sacrificial instructions. The term denotes a specific internal organ, considered as if it were redundant or outhanging, which was designated to be part of an offering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3508}}` is used in a highly specific and consistent manner within the laws of sacrifice. It is always identified as "the **caul** that is above the liver" [[Exodus 29:13]] or "the **caul** above the liver" [[Leviticus 9:10]]. This part of the animal was to be removed along with other prescribed portions, such as the fat and the kidneys, during sacrificial preparations. These instructions applied to various offerings, including the consecration of priests [[Exodus 29:22]] and sin offerings [[Leviticus 9:10]]. In every instance, the **caul** is explicitly commanded to be taken and burned upon the altar as part of the offering to the LORD [[Leviticus 8:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the sacrificial context in which `{{H3508}}` appears:
* `{{H3516}}` **kâbêd** (the liver): This organ is anatomically linked to the caul in every scriptural mention, with the caul always being "above the **liver**" [[Leviticus 3:4]]. Beyond its role in sacrifice, the liver was also associated with deep emotion [[Lamentations 2:11]] and was used in divination practices [[Ezekiel 21:21]].
* `{{H2459}}` **cheleb** (fat): The **caul** is consistently listed with the **fat** as portions to be offered. Fat was considered the richest or choice part of an animal and was a key element of sacrifices accepted by the Lord [[Genesis 4:4]]. However, the people were commanded not to eat it [[Leviticus 3:17]].
* `{{H3629}}` **kilyâh** (kidney): The two **kidneys** are repeatedly named alongside the caul as parts to be removed and burned [[Exodus 29:13]]. Figuratively, the kidneys, or "reins," represent the interior self, which the LORD searches and tries [[Jeremiah 17:10]].
* `{{H451}}` **ʼalyâh** (rump): In offerings involving a ram, such as the ram of consecration, the **rump** is listed with the fat, kidneys, and the caul as parts to be taken [[Exodus 29:22]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3508}}` is rooted entirely in its role within the Levitical sacrificial system.
* **The LORD's Portion:** The explicit command to separate the **caul** along with the fat and kidneys and burn them on the altar designates these specific parts as belonging to God. This act separated the choicest portions for the Lord as part of a holy offering [[Leviticus 8:16]].
* **Ritualistic Precision:** The detailed instructions to remove "the **caul** above the liver, with the kidneys" [[Leviticus 3:4]] underscore the importance of exact obedience in approaching God. The law required careful adherence to the process for the sacrifice to be valid.
* **Atonement and Consecration:** The **caul** was a required component in sacrifices for sin [[Leviticus 9:10]] and for the consecration of the priesthood [[Exodus 29:22]]. Its inclusion was therefore integral to the rituals that provided atonement and set individuals apart for sacred service.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3508}}` **yôthereth** is a precise anatomical term for a part of the liver known as the caul. While it lacks broader metaphorical use, its 11 appearances are vital to understanding the mechanics of Old Testament worship. Its consistent inclusion in sacrificial law highlights the principles of offering the best portions to God, the necessity of strict obedience to divine commands, and the tangible elements involved in the processes of atonement and consecration.
TRV