The Hebrew word lôg, represented by H3849, is a specific term for a measure of liquids. Derived from a root suggesting something hollowed out, its base definition is a log or measure for liquids, specifically oil. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses, indicating a highly specialized use within the scriptures.
In the biblical narrative, H3849 is used exclusively within the context of the purification rituals detailed in Leviticus. It quantifies the amount of oil required for the offerings associated with cleansing a person from leprosy. A "log of oil" is a mandatory component of the sacrifice, both for those who can afford the standard offering Leviticus 14:10 and for the poor who present a smaller offering Leviticus 14:21. The priest takes this specific measure of oil and presents it as a wave offering before the LORD (Leviticus 14:12, Leviticus 14:24) before using it in the anointing ceremony Leviticus 14:15.
Several related words are used in conjunction with lôg to describe the elements of the sacrificial rite:
- H8081 shemen (grease, especially liquid... anointing... oil): This is the substance measured by the lôg. In all its occurrences, H3849 is followed by H8081, as in "a log of oil" Leviticus 14:10.
- H4503 minchâh (a donation... a sacrificial offering... (meat) offering): The lôg of oil is a component of the larger meat offering required for the cleansing ceremony Leviticus 14:21.
- H5560 çôleth ((fine) flour, meal): This is the dry ingredient for the meat offering, measured separately but presented alongside the lôg of oil Leviticus 14:10.
- H6241 ʻissârôwn ((fractional) a tenth part; tenth deal): This term is the measure for the fine flour, used in parallel with how lôg is used for the oil Leviticus 14:21.
The significance of H3849 is found in its precise ritual application. It highlights key principles of Levitical law.
- Ritual Precision: The specification of exactly one log of oil underscores the importance of exactness and obedience in the prescribed forms of worship and purification Leviticus 14:10.
- Atonement and Cleansing: Its use is central to the ceremony for making an atonement for the cleansed individual. The oil from the log is part of a wave offering to the LORD, signifying its dedication to a holy purpose Leviticus 14:12.
- Provision for the Poor: The law maintains the requirement of a log of oil even when other elements of the sacrifice are reduced for the poor, showing it was an essential part of the atoning rite Leviticus 14:21.
In summary, H3849 lôg is not a common word but a highly specific unit of measure. Its sole context within the purification rites of Leviticus 14 anchors its meaning to the themes of ritual cleansing, atonement, and the meticulous nature of the Law. While a simple term for a liquid measure, it represents a crucial and unchangeable component in the process of restoring a person to ceremonial purity before God.
TRV