King James Version

What Does Leviticus 9:20 Mean?

Leviticus 9:20 in the King James Version says “And they put the fat upon the breasts, and he burnt the fat upon the altar:” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Leviticus 9:20 · KJV

Context

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.

22

And Aaron lifted up his hand toward the people, and blessed them, and came down from offering of the sin offering, and the burnt offering, and peace offerings.

Read Leviticus 9 full chapter

Commentary

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

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 five main offerings (burnt, grain, peace, sin, and guilt) addressed different aspects of relationship with God, all fulfilled in Christ's comprehensive sacrifice.
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. Archaeological discoveries at sites like Ugarit reveal Canaanite religious practices Israel's laws explicitly rejected, confirming the Bible's historical reliability and the distinctiveness of Israelite worship.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this verse teach about the costliness of true worship and dedication to God?
  2. What practical steps can you take this week to apply the principles taught in this verse?
  3. How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַיָּשִׂ֥ימוּ1 of 8

“And they put”

H7760

to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)

אֶת2 of 8
H853

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

הַֽחֲלָבִ֖ים3 of 8

“the fat”

H2459

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

עַל4 of 8
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

הֶֽחָז֑וֹת5 of 8

“upon the breasts”

H2373

the breast (as most seen in front)

וַיַּקְטֵ֥ר6 of 8

“and he burnt”

H6999

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

הַֽחֲלָבִ֖ים7 of 8

“the fat”

H2459

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

הַמִּזְבֵּֽחָה׃8 of 8

“upon the altar”

H4196

an altar

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 9:20 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 9:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 7:29-34Leviticus 3:14-17

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