King James Version

What Does Leviticus 7:25 Mean?

Leviticus 7:25 in the King James Version says “For whosoever eateth the fat of the beast, of which men offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD, even the soul that...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“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.”

Leviticus 7:25 · KJV

Context

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.

27

Whatsoever soul it be that eateth any manner of blood, even that soul shall be cut off from his people.

Read Leviticus 7 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
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.

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 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

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 tabernacle's design parallels ancient Near Eastern temple architecture, yet its portable nature and absence of divine images distinguished it from pagan temples.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this verse teach about the costliness of true worship and dedication to God?
  2. How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?
  3. How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 15 words
כִּ֚י1 of 15
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

כָּל2 of 15
H3605

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

הָֽאֹכֶ֖לֶת3 of 15

“For whosoever eateth”

H398

to eat (literally or figuratively)

חֵ֔לֶב4 of 15

“the fat”

H2459

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

מִן5 of 15
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הַ֨בְּהֵמָ֔ה6 of 15

“of the beast”

H929

properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)

אֲשֶׁ֨ר7 of 15
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

יַקְרִ֥יב8 of 15

“of which men offer”

H7126

to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

מִמֶּ֛נָּה9 of 15
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

אִשֶּׁ֖ה10 of 15

“an offering made by fire”

H801

properly, a burnt-offering; but occasionally of any sacrifice

לַֽיהוָ֑ה11 of 15

“unto the LORD”

H3068

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

וְנִכְרְתָ֛ה12 of 15

“it shall be cut off”

H3772

to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt

הַנֶּ֥פֶשׁ13 of 15

“even the soul”

H5315

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

הָֽאֹכֶ֖לֶת14 of 15

“For whosoever eateth”

H398

to eat (literally or figuratively)

מֵֽעַמֶּֽיהָ׃15 of 15

“from his people”

H5971

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

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 7:25 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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