King James Version
What Does Leviticus 19:5 Mean?
“And if ye offer a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, ye shall offer it at your own will.”
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.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(5) **And if ye offer a sacrifice.**—From Leviticus 17:3-7, it will be seen that the Israelites were in the habit of sacrificing to idols the animals intended for private consumption, and that this practice gave rise to the enactment that when any of the three kinds of quadrupeds are to be slaughtered for daily meat, they should first be devoted to God as peace-offerings. Hence the transition here from the prohibition of idolatrous worship to the peace-offerings. The simple abstention from sacrifice to idols and offering them to God is not enough. If the Israelites bring a peace-offering to the Lord it must be offered in the prescribed manner.
**Ye shall offer it at your own will.**—Better, *ye shall offer it for your acceptance *(see Leviticus 1:3), that is, ye are to do it in such a manner as will secure for you the Divine acceptance.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge