King James Version

What Does Leviticus 8:20 Mean?

Leviticus 8:20 in the King James Version says “And he cut the ram into pieces; and Moses burnt the head, and the pieces, and the fat.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And he cut the ram into pieces; and Moses burnt the head, and the pieces, and the fat.”

Leviticus 8:20 · KJV

Context

18

And he brought the ram for the burnt offering: and Aaron and his sons laid their hands upon the head of the ram.

19

And he killed it; and Moses sprinkled the blood upon the altar round about.

20

And he cut the ram into pieces; and Moses burnt the head, and the pieces, and the fat.

21

And he washed the inwards and the legs in water; and Moses burnt the whole ram upon the altar: it was a burnt sacrifice for a sweet savour, and an offering made by fire unto the LORD; as the LORD commanded Moses.

22

And he brought the other ram, the ram of consecration: and Aaron and his sons laid their hands upon the head of the ram.

Read Leviticus 8 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And he cut the ram into pieces; and Moses burnt the head, and the pieces, and the fat.

This verse falls within the section on Consecration of Aaron and Sons. The ordination ceremony established the Aaronic priesthood, involving washing, anointing, and sacrifice—prefiguring Christ's priesthood.


The New Testament reveals that Christ's sacrifice accomplishes what the Levitical system could only symbolize—complete forgiveness and restoration of relationship with God.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The ordination ceremony established the Aaronic priesthood, involving washing, anointing, and sacrifice—prefiguring Christ's priesthood. Chapters 8-10 describe the priesthood's consecration and early ministry. Aaron and his sons received special anointing for their mediatorial role between God and Israel. The tragic account of Nadab and Abihu (ch. 10) demonstrates that approaching God requires reverence and obedience. 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. How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?
  2. What practical steps can you take this week to apply the principles taught in this verse?
  3. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
וְאֶת1 of 12
H853

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

הָאַ֔יִל2 of 12

“the ram”

H352

properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree

נִתַּ֖ח3 of 12

“And he cut”

H5408

to dismember

הַנְּתָחִ֖ים4 of 12

“and the pieces”

H5409

a fragment

וַיַּקְטֵ֤ר5 of 12

“burnt”

H6999

to smoke, i.e., turn into fragrance by fire (especially as an act of worship)

מֹשֶׁה֙6 of 12

“and Moses”

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

אֶת7 of 12
H853

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

הָרֹ֔אשׁ8 of 12

“the head”

H7218

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

וְאֶת9 of 12
H853

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

הַנְּתָחִ֖ים10 of 12

“and the pieces”

H5409

a fragment

וְאֶת11 of 12
H853

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

הַפָּֽדֶר׃12 of 12

“and the fat”

H6309

suet

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 8:20 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 8:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 1:8

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