King James Version

What Does Leviticus 6:29 Mean?

Leviticus 6:29 in the King James Version says “All the males among the priests shall eat thereof: it is most holy. — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

All the males among the priests shall eat thereof: it is most holy.

Leviticus 6:29 · KJV


Context

27

Whatsoever shall touch the flesh thereof shall be holy: and when there is sprinkled of the blood thereof upon any garment, thou shalt wash that whereon it was sprinkled in the holy place.

28

But the earthen vessel wherein it is sodden shall be broken: and if it be sodden in a brasen pot, it shall be both scoured, and rinsed in water.

29

All the males among the priests shall eat thereof: it is most holy.

30

And no sin offering, whereof any of the blood is brought into the tabernacle of the congregation to reconcile withal in the holy place, shall be eaten: it shall be burnt in the fire.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
All the males among the priests shall eat thereof: it is most holy.

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 central theme of Leviticus is God's holiness and the call for His people to be holy. The Hebrew word qadosh (קָדוֹשׁ) means 'set apart' or 'sacred,' emphasizing both separation from sin and consecration to God's purposes. The Aaronic priesthood mediated between God and Israel, offering sacrifices and maintaining the tabernacle. This prefigured Christ's superior priesthood after the order of Melchizedek.
Every sacrifice and ritual in Leviticus points forward to Jesus Christ, who fulfills the entire sacrificial system as both perfect sacrifice and eternal high priest.

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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. Archaeological discoveries at sites like Ugarit reveal Canaanite religious practices Israel's laws explicitly rejected, confirming the Bible's historical reliability and the distinctiveness of Israelite worship.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's holiness, as revealed in this verse, shape your understanding of worship, obedience, and daily living?
  2. How does Christ's superior priesthood, prefigured in this verse, assure you of access to God and effective intercession?
  3. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
כָּל1 of 8
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

זָכָ֥ר2 of 8

All the males

H2145

properly, remembered, i.e., a male (of man or animals, as being the most noteworthy sex)

בַּכֹּֽהֲנִ֖ים3 of 8

among the priests

H3548

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

יֹאכַ֣ל4 of 8

shall eat

H398

to eat (literally or figuratively)

אֹתָ֑הּ5 of 8
H853

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

קָֽדָשִׁ֖ים6 of 8

holy

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

קָֽדָשִׁ֖ים7 of 8

holy

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

הִֽוא׃8 of 8
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo


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 6:29 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 6:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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