King James Version

What Does Leviticus 8:32 Mean?

Leviticus 8:32 in the King James Version says “And that which remaineth of the flesh and of the bread shall ye burn with fire.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And that which remaineth of the flesh and of the bread shall ye burn with fire.”

Leviticus 8:32 · KJV

Context

30

And Moses took of the anointing oil, and of the blood which was upon the altar, and sprinkled it upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon his sons' garments with him; and sanctified Aaron, and his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him.

31

And Moses said unto Aaron and to his sons, Boil the flesh at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and there eat it with the bread that is in the basket of consecrations, as I commanded, saying, Aaron and his sons shall eat it.

32

And that which remaineth of the flesh and of the bread shall ye burn with fire.

33

And ye shall not go out of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation in seven days, until the days of your consecration be at an end: for seven days shall he consecrate you.

34

As he hath done this day, so the LORD hath commanded to do, to make an atonement for you.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And that which remaineth of the flesh and of the bread shall ye burn with fire.

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. 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. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
  2. What practical steps can you take this week to apply the principles taught in this verse?
  3. How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וְהַנּוֹתָ֥ר1 of 5

“And that which remaineth”

H3498

to jut over or exceed; by implication, to excel; (intransitively) to remain or be left; causatively to leave, cause to abound, preserve

בַּבָּשָׂ֖ר2 of 5

“of the flesh”

H1320

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

וּבַלָּ֑חֶם3 of 5

“and of the bread”

H3899

food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

בָּאֵ֖שׁ4 of 5

“with fire”

H784

fire (literally or figuratively)

תִּשְׂרֹֽפוּ׃5 of 5

“shall ye burn”

H8313

to be (causatively, set) on fire

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 8:32 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 8:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 29:34Hebrews 3:13-14Proverbs 27:1Leviticus 7:172 Corinthians 6:2Ecclesiastes 9:10

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