King James Version

What Does Leviticus 6:21 Mean?

Leviticus 6:21 in the King James Version says “In a pan it shall be made with oil; and when it is baken, thou shalt bring it in: and the baken pieces of the meat offer...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“In a pan it shall be made with oil; and when it is baken, thou shalt bring it in: and the baken pieces of the meat offering shalt thou offer for a sweet savour unto the LORD.”

Leviticus 6:21 · KJV

Context

19

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

20

This is the offering of Aaron and of his sons, which they shall offer unto the LORD in the day when he is anointed; the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a meat offering perpetual, half of it in the morning, and half thereof at night.

21

In a pan it shall be made with oil; and when it is baken, thou shalt bring it in: and the baken pieces of the meat offering shalt thou offer for a sweet savour unto the LORD.

22

And the priest of his sons that is anointed in his stead shall offer it: it is a statute for ever unto the LORD; it shall be wholly burnt.

23

For every meat offering for the priest shall be wholly burnt: it shall not be eaten.

Read Leviticus 6 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
In a pan it shall be made with oil; and when it is baken, thou shalt bring it in: and the baken pieces of the meat offering shalt thou offer for a sweet savour unto the LORD.

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 holiness demanded in Leviticus becomes possible through Christ, who both satisfies God's righteous requirements and transforms believers by His Spirit.

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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. 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. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?
  3. How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 13 words
עַֽל1 of 13
H5921

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

מַחֲבַ֗ת2 of 13

“In a pan”

H4227

a pan for baking in

בַּשֶּׁ֛מֶן3 of 13

“with oil”

H8081

grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness

תֵּֽעָשֶׂ֖ה4 of 13

“it shall be made”

H6213

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

מֻרְבֶּ֣כֶת5 of 13

“and when it is baken”

H7246

to soak (bread in oil)

תְּבִיאֶ֑נָּה6 of 13

“thou shalt bring”

H935

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

תֻּֽפִינֵי֙7 of 13

“it in and the baken”

H8601

cookery, i.e., (concretely) a cake

מִנְחַ֣ת8 of 13

“of the meat offering”

H4503

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

פִּתִּ֔ים9 of 13

“pieces”

H6595

a bit

תַּקְרִ֥יב10 of 13

“shalt thou offer”

H7126

to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

רֵֽיחַ11 of 13

“savour”

H7381

odor (as if blown)

נִיחֹ֖חַ12 of 13

“for a sweet”

H5207

properly, restful, i.e., pleasant; abstractly, delight

לַֽיהוָֽה׃13 of 13

“unto the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

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 6:21 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 6:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 2:5Leviticus 7:91 Chronicles 9:31

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