King James Version

What Does Leviticus 22:29 Mean?

Leviticus 22:29 in the King James Version says “And when ye will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving unto the LORD, offer it at your own will. — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And when ye will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving unto the LORD, offer it at your own will.

Leviticus 22:29 · KJV


Context

27

When a bullock, or a sheep, or a goat, is brought forth, then it shall be seven days under the dam; and from the eighth day and thenceforth it shall be accepted for an offering made by fire unto the LORD.

28

And whether it be cow or ewe, ye shall not kill it and her young both in one day. ewe: or, she goat

29

And when ye will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving unto the LORD, offer it at your own will.

30

On the same day it shall be eaten up; ye shall leave none of it until the morrow: I am the LORD.

31

Therefore shall ye keep my commandments, and do them: I am the LORD.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And when ye will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving unto the LORD, offer it at your own will.

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.
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

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. 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. How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?
  3. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וְכִֽי1 of 7
H3588

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

תִּזְבָּֽחוּ׃2 of 7

And when ye will offer

H2076

to slaughter an animal (usually in sacrifice)

זֶֽבַח3 of 7

a sacrifice

H2077

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

תּוֹדָ֖ה4 of 7

of thanksgiving

H8426

properly, an extension of the hand, i.e., (by implication) avowal, or (usually) adoration; specifically, a choir of worshippers

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)

תִּזְבָּֽחוּ׃7 of 7

And when ye will 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 22:29 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 22:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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