King James Version

What Does Leviticus 22:23 Mean?

Leviticus 22:23 in the King James Version says “Either a bullock or a lamb that hath any thing superfluous or lacking in his parts, that mayest thou offer for a freewil...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Either a bullock or a lamb that hath any thing superfluous or lacking in his parts, that mayest thou offer for a freewill offering; but for a vow it shall not be accepted. lamb: or, kid”

Leviticus 22:23 · KJV

Context

21

And whosoever offereth a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD to accomplish his vow, or a freewill offering in beeves or sheep, it shall be perfect to be accepted; there shall be no blemish therein. sheep: or, goats

22

Blind, or broken, or maimed, or having a wen, or scurvy, or scabbed, ye shall not offer these unto the LORD, nor make an offering by fire of them upon the altar unto the LORD.

23

Either a bullock or a lamb that hath any thing superfluous or lacking in his parts, that mayest thou offer for a freewill offering; but for a vow it shall not be accepted. lamb: or, kid

24

Ye shall not offer unto the LORD that which is bruised, or crushed, or broken, or cut; neither shall ye make any offering thereof in your land.

25

Neither from a stranger's hand shall ye offer the bread of your God of any of these; because their corruption is in them, and blemishes be in them: they shall not be accepted for you.

Read Leviticus 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Either a bullock or a lamb that hath any thing superfluous or lacking in his parts, that mayest thou offer for a freewill offering; but for a vow it shall not be accepted.

This verse falls within the section on Acceptable Sacrifices. Requirements for acceptable sacrifices and those who may eat sacred offerings, maintaining sacrifice quality.

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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Requirements for acceptable sacrifices and those who may eat sacred offerings, maintaining sacrifice quality. 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. Ancient sacrificial texts from cultures surrounding Israel demonstrate the widespread practice of animal sacrifice, but Israel's system uniquely emphasized moral atonement over magical efficacy.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this verse teach about the costliness of true worship and dedication to God?
  2. How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?
  3. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
וְשׁ֥וֹר1 of 10

“Either a bullock”

H7794

a bullock (as a traveller)

וָשֶׂ֖ה2 of 10

“or a lamb”

H7716

a member of a flock, i.e., a sheep or goat

שָׂר֣וּעַ3 of 10

“that hath any thing superfluous”

H8311

to prolong, i.e., (reflex) be deformed by excess of members

וְקָל֑וּט4 of 10

“or lacking in his parts”

H7038

to maim

נְדָבָה֙5 of 10

“for a freewill offering”

H5071

properly (abstractly) spontaneity, or (adjectively) spontaneous; also (concretely) a spontaneous or (by inference, in plural) abundant gift

תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֣ה6 of 10

“that mayest thou offer”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֹת֔וֹ7 of 10
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

וּלְנֵ֖דֶר8 of 10

“but for a vow”

H5088

a promise (to god); also (concretely) a thing promised

לֹ֥א9 of 10
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יֵֽרָצֶֽה׃10 of 10

“it shall not be accepted”

H7521

to be pleased with; specifically, to satisfy a debt

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 22:23 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 22:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 21:18

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