King James Version

What Does Leviticus 7:3 Mean?

Leviticus 7:3 in the King James Version says “And he shall offer of it all the fat thereof; the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards,” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And he shall offer of it all the fat thereof; the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards,”

Leviticus 7:3 · KJV

Context

1

Likewise this is the law of the trespass offering: it is most holy.

2

In the place where they kill the burnt offering shall they kill the trespass offering: and the blood thereof shall he sprinkle round about upon the altar.

3

And he shall offer of it all the fat thereof; the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards,

4

And the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, which is by the flanks, and the caul that is above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away:

5

And the priest shall burn them upon the altar for an offering made by fire unto the LORD: it is a trespass offering.

Read Leviticus 7 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And he shall offer of it all the fat thereof; the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards,

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 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

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. Ancient texts like the Code of Hammurabi show that law codes were common in the ancient Near East, but biblical law uniquely grounded ethics in God's character rather than merely social convention.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
  2. How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?
  3. How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
וְאֵ֥ת1 of 12
H853

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

כָּל2 of 12
H3605

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

הַחֵ֖לֶב3 of 12

“and the fat”

H2459

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

יַקְרִ֣יב4 of 12

“And he shall offer”

H7126

to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

מִמֶּ֑נּוּ5 of 12
H4480

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

אֵ֚ת6 of 12
H853

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

הָֽאַלְיָ֔ה7 of 12

“thereof the rump”

H451

the stout part, i.e., the fat tail of the middle eastern sheep

וְאֶת8 of 12
H853

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

הַחֵ֖לֶב9 of 12

“and the fat”

H2459

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

הַֽמְכַסֶּ֥ה10 of 12

“that covereth”

H3680

properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)

אֶת11 of 12
H853

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

הַקֶּֽרֶב׃12 of 12

“the inwards”

H7130

properly, the nearest part, i.e., the center, whether literal, figurative or adverbial (especially with preposition)

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 7:3 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 7:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 29:13Leviticus 3:15-16Leviticus 3:9-11Leviticus 3:3-5Leviticus 4:8-10Psalms 51:6

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