King James Version

What Does Leviticus 19:5 Mean?

Leviticus 19:5 in the King James Version says “And if ye offer a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, ye shall offer it at your own will.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And if ye offer a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, ye shall offer it at your own will.”

Leviticus 19:5 · KJV

Peace

Context

3

Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my sabbaths: I am the LORD your God.

4

Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God.

5

And if ye offer a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, ye shall offer it at your own will.

6

It shall be eaten the same day ye offer it, and on the morrow: and if ought remain until the third day, it shall be burnt in the fire.

7

And if it be eaten at all on the third day, it is abominable; it shall not be accepted.

Read Leviticus 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And if ye offer a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, ye shall offer it at your own will.

This verse falls within the section on Various Laws of Holiness. Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18).

The five main offerings (burnt, grain, peace, sin, and guilt) addressed different aspects of relationship with God, all fulfilled in Christ's comprehensive sacrifice.
What Leviticus portrayed through types and shadows, Christ fulfilled in reality through His incarnation, perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18). Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. The Israelite dietary laws in Leviticus 11 have no exact parallel in surrounding cultures, though some ancient cultures had food taboos, suggesting unique revelation rather than borrowed customs.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this verse teach about the costliness of true worship and dedication to God?
  2. How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?
  3. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וְכִ֧י1 of 7
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

תִּזְבָּחֻֽהוּ׃2 of 7

“And if ye offer”

H2076

to slaughter an animal (usually in sacrifice)

זֶ֥בַח3 of 7

“a sacrifice”

H2077

properly, a slaughter, i.e., the flesh of an animal; by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act)

שְׁלָמִ֖ים4 of 7

“of peace offerings”

H8002

properly, requital, i.e., a (voluntary) sacrifice in thanks

לַֽיהוָ֑ה5 of 7

“unto the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

לִֽרְצֹנְכֶ֖ם6 of 7

“it at your own will”

H7522

delight (especially as shown)

תִּזְבָּחֻֽהוּ׃7 of 7

“And if ye offer”

H2076

to slaughter an animal (usually in sacrifice)

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 19:5 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 19:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 22:19Leviticus 7:16Leviticus 22:29Leviticus 1:3Ezekiel 46:2Exodus 24:5

Test Your Knowledge

Leviticus 19 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLeviticus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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