Leviticus 1 explained: The Offering Burned Whole

God speaks from the tent (vv. 1-2)

The tent of meeting was the portable worship tent Israel carried in the desert, where God was believed to be present among them. These rules cover gifts people chose to bring, using tame animals from their own herds and flocks.

Choosing the best (v. 3)

The animal had to be a healthy male with no defect, brought to the altar at the tent's entrance and nowhere else. Giving the best, not the leftovers, was a way of honoring God.

Hand on the head (vv. 4-5)

Pressing a hand on the animal's head linked it to the giver, though scholars debate whether this meant handing it over to God or the animal standing in the person's place. Its blood, seen as its life, was splashed on the altar to make atonement, meaning to put things right between the person and God.

Burned completely (vv. 6-9)

Unlike most other offerings, none of this one was eaten, and the whole animal went up in smoke, described as a smell that pleased God, a picture of God gladly accepting it. Christians later read this complete giving as pointing to Jesus offering his life.

Sheep, goats and birds (vv. 10-17)

Those who could not afford a bull could bring a sheep or goat, and the poorest could bring a dove or young pigeon. Each case ends by saying God is pleased with it, which many readers take to mean the smaller gift was just as welcome.

Key verse: Leviticus 1:4

Where Christians differ

Christians differ on whether these sacrifices mainly picture an animal dying in the worshipper's place to bear their guilt, or mainly picture the worshipper giving themselves wholly to God.

Something to think about

What, if anything, have you ever given up completely, with nothing held back for yourself, and what made it feel worth it or not?