King James Version

What Does Leviticus 9:11 Mean?

Leviticus 9:11 in the King James Version says “And the flesh and the hide he burnt with fire without the camp. — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And the flesh and the hide he burnt with fire without the camp.

Leviticus 9:11 · KJV


Context

9

And the sons of Aaron brought the blood unto him: and he dipped his finger in the blood, and put it upon the horns of the altar, and poured out the blood at the bottom of the altar:

10

But the fat, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver of the sin offering, he burnt upon the altar; as the LORD commanded Moses.

11

And the flesh and the hide he burnt with fire without the camp.

12

And he slew the burnt offering; and Aaron's sons presented unto him the blood, which he sprinkled round about upon the altar.

13

And they presented the burnt offering unto him, with the pieces thereof, and the head: and he burnt them upon the altar.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the flesh and the hide he burnt with fire without the camp.

This verse falls within the section on Priests Begin Their Ministry. Aaron's first official sacrifices as high priest, culminating in God's glory appearing and fire consuming the offerings.


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

Aaron's first official sacrifices as high priest, culminating in God's glory appearing and fire consuming the offerings. 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 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 seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
  2. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?
  3. How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וְאֶת1 of 8
H853

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

הַבָּשָׂ֖ר2 of 8

And the flesh

H1320

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

וְאֶת3 of 8
H853

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

הָע֑וֹר4 of 8

and the hide

H5785

skin (as naked); by implication, hide, leather

שָׂרַ֣ף5 of 8

he burnt

H8313

to be (causatively, set) on fire

בָּאֵ֔שׁ6 of 8

with fire

H784

fire (literally or figuratively)

מִח֖וּץ7 of 8

without

H2351

properly, separate by a wall, i.e., outside, outdoors

לַֽמַּחֲנֶֽה׃8 of 8

the camp

H4264

an encampment (of travellers or troops); hence, an army, whether literal (of soldiers) or figurative (of dancers, angels, cattle, locusts, stars; or e


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 9:11 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 9:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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