King James Version

What Does Leviticus 9:21 Mean?

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

Context

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:

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

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

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.

And Moses and Aaron went into the tabernacle of the congregation, and came out, and blessed the people: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the people.

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Commentary

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 9 Chapter Outline The first offerings of Aaron for himself and the people.(1-21) Moses and Aaron bless the people, Fire cometh upon the altar from the Lord.(22-24) **Verses 1-21** These many sacrifices, which were all done away by the death of Christ, teach us that our best services need washing in his blood, and that the guilt of our best sacrifices needs to be done away by one more pure and more noble than they. Let us be thankful that we have such a High Priest. The priests had not a day's respite from service allowed. God's spiritual priests have constant work, which the duty of every day requires; they that would give up their account with joy, must redeem time. The glory of God appeared in the sight of the people, and owned what they had done. We are not now to expect such appearances, but God draws nigh to those who draw nigh to him, and the offerings of faith are acceptable to him; though the sacrifices being spiritual, the tokens of the acceptance are spiritual likewise. When Aaron had done all that was to be done about the sacrifices, he lifted up his hands towards the people, and blessed them. Aaron could but crave a blessing, God alone can command it.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714). Public Domain.

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 9:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.