Purpose

To teach Israel how to worship God and live as His holy people through sacrificial system and moral laws.

Author

Moses, writing down the detailed instructions God gave him for worship and holy living. As a former prince of Egypt, Moses understood ceremony and ritual, but these came directly from God.

Historical Context

Written: 1440-1400 BC. Instructions given at Mount Sinai for proper worship and holy living.

Significance

Reveals God's holiness and the need for atonement, pointing forward to Christ's perfect sacrifice.

Key Themes

Holiness, Sacrifice, Atonement, Priesthood, Purity

Interesting Facts

• The word 'holy' appears 152 times - more than any other book
• Contains 5 different types of sacrifices, each picturing a different aspect of Christ's work
• The Day of Atonement ritual (Leviticus 16) is performed exactly as described 3,400 years later

Prophecies

• The ultimate sacrifice that would take away sin forever (implied in the sacrificial system) Fulfilled: Jesus Christ's once-for-all sacrifice on the cross (1400 years later)

Leviticus Chapter 7 provides detailed instructions concerning the guilt offering and the peace offering, emphasizing the importance of proper worship and the regulations surrounding these sacrifices. The chapter begins with the law of the guilt offering, highlighting its holy status and the specific procedures that must be followed when conducting this offering. The guilt offering is distinct in that it addresses unintentional sins and seeks atonement for wrongs committed against others, thereby restoring relationships. Key elements include the requirement for the offering to be slaughtered in the same place as the burnt offering, with its blood being splashed against the sides of the altar. The chapter continues by explaining the roles of the priests, who are to partake in the offerings, ensuring that the holy food is consumed in a sacred place. Notably, the priest who officiates has specific rights to the skin of the burnt offering, indicating their vital role in the sacrificial system. Next, the chapter transitions to the peace offering, which serves as a communal meal to celebrate fellowship with God. This offering can be given as a vow, a freewill offering, or as a thanksgiving offering, each carrying its own stipulations. For instance, unleavened bread mixed with oil is to accompany the thanksgiving offering, while any leftovers from the peace offerings must be consumed within a defined timeframe to maintain holiness. If any flesh remains uneaten on the third day, it is to be burned, emphasizing the seriousness of adhering to God's commands. The chapter also warns against consuming the flesh of the peace offerings while in a state of uncleanness, underscoring the necessity of purity and the potential consequences for failing to uphold these standards. Ultimately, Leviticus 7 serves as a reminder of the seriousness of worship, the necessity of maintaining holiness, and the privilege that comes with the priestly role in mediating between God and His people.