King James Version

What Does Leviticus 9:19 Mean?

Leviticus 9:19 in the King James Version says “And the fat of the bullock and of the ram, the rump, and that which covereth the inwards, and the kidneys, and the caul ...” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the fat of the bullock and of the ram, the rump, and that which covereth the inwards, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver:”

Leviticus 9:19 · KJV

Context

17

And he brought the meat offering, and took an handful thereof, and burnt it upon the altar, beside the burnt sacrifice of the morning. took: Heb. filled his hand out of it

18

He slew also the bullock and the ram for a sacrifice of peace offerings, which was for the people: and Aaron's sons presented unto him the blood, which he sprinkled upon the altar round about,

19

And the fat of the bullock and of the ram, the rump, and that which covereth the inwards, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver:

20

And they put the fat upon the breasts, and he burnt the fat upon the altar:

21

And the breasts and the right shoulder Aaron waved for a wave offering before the LORD; as Moses commanded.

Read Leviticus 9 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the fat of the bullock and of the ram, the rump, and that which covereth the inwards, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver:

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.


What Leviticus portrayed through types and shadows, Christ fulfilled in reality through His incarnation, perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection.

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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 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. How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?
  2. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
  3. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וְאֶת1 of 11
H853

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

הַֽחֲלָבִ֖ים2 of 11

“And the fat”

H2459

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

מִן3 of 11
H4480

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

הַשּׁ֑וֹר4 of 11

“of the bullock”

H7794

a bullock (as a traveller)

וּמִן5 of 11
H4480

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

הָאַ֔יִל6 of 11

“and of the ram”

H352

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

הָֽאַלְיָ֤ה7 of 11

“the rump”

H451

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

וְהַֽמְכַסֶּה֙8 of 11

“and that which covereth”

H4374

a covering, i.e., garment; specifically, a coverlet (for a bed), an awning (from the sun); also the omentum (as covering the intestines)

וְהַכְּלָיֹ֔ת9 of 11

“the inwards and the kidneys”

H3629

a kidney (as an essential organ); figuratively, the mind (as the interior self)

וְיֹתֶ֖רֶת10 of 11

“and the caul”

H3508

the lobe or flap of the liver (as if redundant or outhanging)

הַכָּבֵֽד׃11 of 11

“above the liver”

H3516

the liver (as the heaviest of the viscera)

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 9:19 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 9:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 3:5Leviticus 3:9Leviticus 9:10Leviticus 3:16

Test Your Knowledge

Leviticus 9 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLeviticus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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