Definition: But his inwards and his legs shall he wash in water: and the priest shall burn all on the altar, [to be] a burnt sacrifice, an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Leviticus 1:9. It's a really important part of Jewish tradition and has some pretty striking imagery. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a ritualistic burning sacrifice – a special offering – as a way to show reverence and worship towards God. Let’s unpack the parts: “But his inwards and his legs shall he wash in water…” : This is a really unusual image. It suggests that God is focusing on the inner workings of the person making the offering, rather than just their outward appearance. It's about a deep inner spiritual cleansing. “…and the priest shall burn all on the altar, [to be] a burnt sacrifice, an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.” : This is the key part: “all on the altar” : This means every single thing – every aspect of the person making the offering – is being scrutinized and purified. It’s not just about their outward appearance; it's about everything they are. “a burnt sacrifice, an offering made by fire” : This is a very clear description: It’s not a simple offering of food or flowers. It’s a burning sacrifice. Fire is symbolic of God’s judgment and power. “of a sweet savour unto the LORD” : This is the most important part! "Sweet savour" means something incredibly precious, holy, and pleasing to God. It's not just about what they do , but what they offer as a testament of their devotion. What’s the point? The entire idea is that by making this burning sacrifice, the person is demonstrating their commitment to God. It’s a symbolic act of acknowledging God’s holiness and offering themself completely – showing that they are worthy of His attention and favor. It's about purifying themselves before approaching the divine. In short, it’s a powerful image of a complete and heartfelt dedication to God through a burning sacrifice. --- Important Note: This is a complex passage rooted in ancient Jewish law. It’s important to understand its context within the traditions of that time. Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Relate it to other biblical stories or concepts? Discuss what this ritual meant for people in ancient Israel?