What is the definition of Leviticus 1:13? π π
But he shall wash the inwards and the legs with water: and the priest shall bring [it] all, and burn [it] upon the altar: it [is] a burnt sacrifice, an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.
Explanation:
Okay, letβs break down this verse from Leviticus 1:13. It's a really important part of understanding how the Jewish people worshipped God and performed rituals. Hereβs what it means in simpler terms:
The Core Idea:
This verse describes a specific type of sacrifice β a burning offering β that was made to honor God. Itβs essentially a very deliberate act of worship.
Let's break it down word by word:
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βBut he shall wash the inwards and the legs with water:β
This means the priest would carefully clean the person being offered, both inside and outside (legs). This wasn't just about a quick rinse; it was a ritualistic cleansing.
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"And the priest shall bring [it] all, and burn [it] upon the altar:"
The priest would gather the offering β the person being offered β and then carefully place it on an altar. The burning is crucial here β itβs not just about adding something to the altar; it's about πburningπ it.
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βIt [is] a burnt sacrifice, an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.β
This is the most important part. βA burnt sacrificeβ means this wasnβt just any ordinary offering. It was deliberately prepared to be burned. "Of a sweet savour unto the LORD" β this is a poetic phrase that means it was offered with a special, pleasing aroma to God. It wasn't just about being πburnedπ; it was intended to be a beautiful and heartfelt offering of devotion.
Whatβs the Significance?
This verse highlights several key points:
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Sacrifice as Worship:
The entire act β washing, bringing, burning β is focused on worshipping God and showing reverence. It wasn't just about providing food or resources; it was a direct expression of devotion.
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Central Role of the Priest:
The priest played a vital role in this process, acting as a conduit between humanity and God.
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Emphasis on Beauty & Delight:
The offering wasnβt simply about being burned, but also about having a beautiful aroma that pleased God.
In short, this verse describes a very specific type of ritual sacrifice β a carefully prepared offering that was meant to be seen as a beautiful expression of worship.
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Do you want me to explain anything in more detail? For example, would you like me to:
π Explain the purpose of sacrifices in Jewish tradition?
π Give an example of what this type of sacrifice might have looked like?