### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **peder**, represented by `{{H6309}}`, refers to **suet** or **fat**. It is derived from an unused root word that means to be greasy. This specific term appears only **3 times** in the Bible, across **3 unique verses**, exclusively within the context of sacrificial offerings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6309}}` is a technical term used in the Levitical instructions for burnt offerings. In every instance, the **fat** is listed as a distinct part of the animal, alongside the head and the other pieces, to be placed on the altar. The priests, Aaron's sons, were instructed to lay the **fat** in order upon the wood that was on the fire of the altar ([[Leviticus 1:8]], [[Leviticus 1:12]]). This act was part of the process of preparing the offering, which also involved cutting the animal into pieces and, in the case of Moses, burning the head, the pieces, and the **fat** [[Leviticus 8:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the ritual context of **peder**:
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): This is the sacred structure upon which the **fat** was placed to be burned. The altar was the central point for sacrifice and atonement [[Leviticus 17:11]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): The **priest** was the designated officiant who handled the sacrificial elements, including laying the **fat** upon the altar [[Leviticus 1:12]]. This role was essential for ministering before the Lord [[Joel 2:17]].
* `{{H5409}}` **nêthach** (part, piece): This word refers to the dismembered sections of the sacrificial animal. The **fat** is consistently mentioned with the "pieces" and the "head," identifying it as a specific, separated component of the offering [[Leviticus 8:20]].
* `{{H6186}}` **ʻârak** (to set in a row, i.e. arrange, put in order): This verb describes the deliberate and careful placement of the **fat** and other parts on the altar [[Leviticus 1:8]]. This highlights the prescribed orderliness of the sacrificial ritual.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6309}}` is tied directly to the system of worship it belongs to.
* **Precision in Worship:** The specific mention of the **fat** among the other pieces to be "laid in order" `{{H6186}}` demonstrates the importance of following divine instructions with precision. Every part of the offering had a designated place and purpose [[Leviticus 1:12]].
* **The Priest's Role:** The handling of the **fat** was a duty assigned to the **priest** `{{H3548}}`. This act was part of their broader mediatorial function, representing the people before God through the administration of sacrifices [[Leviticus 1:8]].
* **Consecration for the Altar:** By being separated and placed on the **altar** `{{H4196}}` with the other parts, the **fat** was consecrated as part of the offering made by **fire** `{{H784}}` to the Lord, connecting it to the larger purpose of atonement and worship [[Leviticus 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6309}}` is a highly specific term for the suet or **fat** of a sacrificial animal. While its usage is rare, it provides a clear window into the detailed and orderly nature of Levitical worship. The word itself is less important than the context it inhabits: a system where priests carefully prepared specific parts of an offering on the altar as a prescribed act of worship before God. It underscores a theological framework built on adherence to divine command and ritual precision.
TRV