King James Version

What Does Leviticus 3:11 Mean?

“And the priest shall burn it upon the altar: it is the food of the offering made by fire unto the LORD.”

Context

And he shall offer of the sacrifice of the peace offering an offering made by fire unto the LORD; the fat thereof, and the whole rump, it shall he take off hard by the backbone; and the fat that covereth the inwards, and all the fat that is upon the inwards,

And the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, which is by the flanks, and the caul above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away.

And the priest shall burn it upon the altar: it is the food of the offering made by fire unto the LORD.

And if his offering be a goat, then he shall offer it before the LORD.

And he shall lay his hand upon the head of it, and kill it before the tabernacle of the congregation: and the sons of Aaron shall sprinkle the blood thereof upon the altar round about.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **The food, **or *bread, *that is, which the fire upon the altar was to consume for God, or the sacrifice. Hence that which was burnt unto God was called His bread (Numbers 28:2; Ezekiel 44:7), and the priests who burnt it are described as offering “ the bread of their God” (Leviticus 21:6; Leviticus 21:8; Leviticus 21:17).

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 3:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.