King James Version

What Does Leviticus 7:24 Mean?

Leviticus 7:24 in the King James Version says “And the fat of the beast that dieth of itself, and the fat of that which is torn with beasts, may be used in any other u...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the fat of the beast that dieth of itself, and the fat of that which is torn with beasts, may be used in any other use: but ye shall in no wise eat of it. beast: Heb. carcase”

Leviticus 7:24 · KJV

Context

22

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

23

Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Ye shall eat no manner of fat, of ox, or of sheep, or of goat.

24

And the fat of the beast that dieth of itself, and the fat of that which is torn with beasts, may be used in any other use: but ye shall in no wise eat of it. beast: Heb. carcase

25

For whosoever eateth the fat of the beast, of which men offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD, even the soul that eateth it shall be cut off from his people.

26

Moreover ye shall eat no manner of blood, whether it be of fowl or of beast, in any of your dwellings.

Read Leviticus 7 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the fat of the beast that dieth of itself, and the fat of that which is torn with beasts, may be used in any other use: but ye shall in no wise eat of it.

This verse falls within the section on Further Offering Regulations. Additional laws concerning offerings, including prohibitions on eating fat and blood, establishing boundaries for holy things.


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

Additional laws concerning offerings, including prohibitions on eating fat and blood, establishing boundaries for holy 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. How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?
  2. How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?
  3. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
וְחֵ֣לֶב1 of 10

“And the fat”

H2459

fat, whether literally or figuratively; hence, the richest or choice part

נְבֵלָה֙2 of 10

“of the beast that dieth of itself”

H5038

a flabby thing, i.e., a carcase or carrion (human or bestial, often collectively); figuratively, an idol

וְחֵ֣לֶב3 of 10

“And the fat”

H2459

fat, whether literally or figuratively; hence, the richest or choice part

טְרֵפָ֔ה4 of 10

“of that which is torn with beasts”

H2966

prey, i.e., flocks devoured by animals

יֵֽעָשֶׂ֖ה5 of 10

“may be used”

H6213

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

לְכָל6 of 10
H3605

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

מְלָאכָ֑ה7 of 10

“in any other use”

H4399

properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)

תֹֽאכְלֻֽהוּ׃8 of 10

“but ye shall in no wise”

H398

to eat (literally or figuratively)

לֹ֥א9 of 10
H3808

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

תֹֽאכְלֻֽהוּ׃10 of 10

“but ye shall in no wise”

H398

to eat (literally or figuratively)

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 7:24 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 7:24 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 22:31Leviticus 22:8Leviticus 17:15Deuteronomy 14:21Ezekiel 4:14Ezekiel 44:31

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