King James Version

What Does Leviticus 6:13 Mean?

Leviticus 6:13 in the King James Version says “The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out. — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.

Leviticus 6:13 · KJV


Context

11

And he shall put off his garments, and put on other garments, and carry forth the ashes without the camp unto a clean place.

12

And the fire upon the altar shall be burning in it; it shall not be put out: and the priest shall burn wood on it every morning, and lay the burnt offering in order upon it; and he shall burn thereon the fat of the peace offerings.

13

The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.

14

And this is the law of the meat offering: the sons of Aaron shall offer it before the LORD, before the altar.

15

And he shall take of it his handful, of the flour of the meat offering, and of the oil thereof, and all the frankincense which is upon the meat offering, and shall burn it upon the altar for a sweet savour, even the memorial of it, unto the LORD.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.

This verse falls within the section on Priestly Instructions for Offerings. Detailed regulations for priests administering the sacrificial system, emphasizing holiness and proper handling of sacred things.

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.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Detailed regulations for priests administering the sacrificial system, emphasizing holiness and proper handling of sacred things. Leviticus was given to Israel at Mount Sinai, shortly after the tabernacle's construction described in Exodus. The name 'Leviticus' (from Latin Leviticus, referring to the Levites) reflects its focus on priestly duties, though the Hebrew title Wayyiqra ('And He called') emphasizes God's initiative in revealing these laws. The first seven chapters detail the five main offerings, providing both worshiper instructions and priestly procedures. Ancient Near Eastern cultures had various sacrificial systems, but Israel's sacrificial worship was unique in its ethical foundation, monotheistic framework, and emphasis on atonement rather than appeasement. Unlike pagan rituals focused on manipulating deities, Israel's sacrifices acknowledged God's sovereignty and sought reconciliation based on His gracious provision. 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 point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?
  3. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
אֵ֗שׁ1 of 7

The fire

H784

fire (literally or figuratively)

תָּמִ֛יד2 of 7

shall ever

H8548

properly, continuance (as indefinite extension); but used only (attributively as adjective) constant (or adverbially, constantly); elliptically the re

תּוּקַ֥ד3 of 7

be burning

H3344

to burn

עַל4 of 7
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

הַמִּזְבֵּ֖חַ5 of 7

upon the altar

H4196

an altar

לֹ֥א6 of 7
H3808

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

תִכְבֶֽה׃7 of 7

it shall never go out

H3518

to expire or (causatively) to extinguish (fire, light, anger)


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 6:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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