King James Version

What Does Leviticus 1:10 Mean?

Leviticus 1:10 in the King James Version says “And if his offering be of the flocks, namely, of the sheep, or of the goats, for a burnt sacrifice; he shall bring it a ...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And if his offering be of the flocks, namely, of the sheep, or of the goats, for a burnt sacrifice; he shall bring it a male without blemish.”

Leviticus 1:10 · KJV

Context

8

And the priests, Aaron's sons, shall lay the parts, the head, and the fat, in order upon the wood that is on the fire which is upon the altar:

9

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.

10

And if his offering be of the flocks, namely, of the sheep, or of the goats, for a burnt sacrifice; he shall bring it a male without blemish.

11

And he shall kill it on the side of the altar northward before the LORD: and the priests, Aaron's sons, shall sprinkle his blood round about upon the altar.

12

And he shall cut it into his pieces, with his head and his fat: and the priest shall lay them in order on the wood that is on the fire which is upon the altar:

Read Leviticus 1 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And if his offering be of the flocks, namely, of the sheep, or of the goats, for a burnt sacrifice; he shall bring it a male without blemish.

This verse falls within the section on Burnt Offerings. The burnt offering (עֹלָה, olah) represents complete consecration to God. Unlike other offerings, it was entirely consumed on the altar, symbolizing total dedication.

The five main offerings (burnt, grain, peace, sin, and guilt) addressed different aspects of relationship with God, all fulfilled in Christ's comprehensive sacrifice.
The access to God's presence that Leviticus carefully regulated is now freely available through Christ's blood, tearing the veil and opening the way to God.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The burnt offering (עֹלָה, olah) represents complete consecration to God. Unlike other offerings, it was entirely consumed on the altar, symbolizing total dedication. Leviticus was given to Israel at Mount Sinai, shortly after the tabernacle's construction described in Exodus. The name 'Leviticus' (from Latin Leviticus, referring to the Levites) reflects its focus on priestly duties, though the Hebrew title Wayyiqra ('And He called') emphasizes God's initiative in revealing these laws. The first seven chapters detail the five main offerings, providing both worshiper instructions and priestly procedures. Ancient Near Eastern cultures had various sacrificial systems, but Israel's sacrificial worship was unique in its ethical foundation, monotheistic framework, and emphasis on atonement rather than appeasement. Unlike pagan rituals focused on manipulating deities, Israel's sacrifices acknowledged God's sovereignty and sought reconciliation based on His gracious provision. The tabernacle's design parallels ancient Near Eastern temple architecture, yet its portable nature and absence of divine images distinguished it from pagan temples.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this verse teach about the costliness of true worship and dedication to God?
  2. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?
  3. How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 13 words
וְאִם1 of 13
H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

מִן2 of 13
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הַצֹּ֨אן3 of 13

“be of the flocks”

H6629

a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)

קָרְבָּנ֧וֹ4 of 13

“And if his offering”

H7133

something brought near the altar, i.e., a sacrificial present

מִן5 of 13
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הַכְּשָׂבִ֛ים6 of 13

“namely of the sheep”

H3775

a young sheep

א֥וֹ7 of 13
H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

מִן8 of 13
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הָֽעִזִּ֖ים9 of 13

“or of the goats”

H5795

a she-goat (as strong), but masculine in plural (which also is used elliptically for goat's hair)

לְעֹלָ֑ה10 of 13

“for a burnt sacrifice”

H5930

a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)

זָכָ֥ר11 of 13

“it a male”

H2145

properly, remembered, i.e., a male (of man or animals, as being the most noteworthy sex)

תָּמִ֖ים12 of 13

“without blemish”

H8549

entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth

יַקְרִיבֶֽנּוּ׃13 of 13

“he shall bring”

H7126

to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Leviticus 1:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Leviticus 1:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Malachi 1:14Leviticus 22:19Leviticus 1:2-3Genesis 8:20Isaiah 53:6-7Exodus 12:5

Test Your Knowledge

Leviticus 1 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLeviticus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Leviticus 1 with CommentaryAll Leviticus ChaptersComplete Leviticus QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes