And thou shalt take all the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul that is above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and burn them upon the altar.

EXODUS 29:13KJV
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Exodus 29:13 (KJV)

What does Exodus 29:13 mean?

Exodus 29:13 instructs that specific inner parts of a sacrificed animal—the fat covering the internal organs, the fatty lobe above the liver, the two kidneys, and the fat on them—are to be taken and burned on the altar. This is part of the ritual for consecrating priests in ancient Israel.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, giving detailed directions for the ordination ceremony of Aaron and his sons as priests. The focus on burning these particular parts highlights the careful and deliberate nature of Israelite sacrificial practices, where certain portions were set apart for God as a sign of dedication and respect.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 29:13

  • חֵלֶב (ḥēlev, "fat"): This word refers to the specific type of fat considered the best or choicest part, often reserved for God in sacrifices. Its mention here shows the importance of offering the most valued portions.
  • יְכַסֶּה (yekhasseh, "covereth"): This verb describes the fat that covers or surrounds the internal organs, emphasizing the thoroughness of the selection.
  • כְּרֵס (keres, "inwards"): This term points to the inner organs, showing the ritual's focus on the animal's most vital and hidden parts.
  • יֹתֶרֶת (yoteret, "caul"): This is a specific lobe or membrane above the liver, a detail that underlines the precision of the priestly instructions.
  • כִּלְיָה (kilyah, "kidneys"): The kidneys were seen as significant organs in ancient thought, often symbolizing the innermost self or emotions.

Why Exodus 29:13 matters

  • Exodus 29:13 clarifies that not all parts of a sacrificial animal were treated the same; certain inner parts were specially set aside for burning, showing a careful distinction in ritual practice.
  • The verse connects to the larger context of priestly consecration, demonstrating the seriousness and sacredness with which Israel approached worship and leadership roles.
  • Understanding these details helps modern readers see the depth of symbolism and reverence in ancient Israelite worship, where even the smallest instructions carried meaning.

Where else these words appear

“caul” Hebrew H3508 · used in 11 verses

  • Exodus 29:22 Also thou shalt take of the ram the fat and the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and the right shoulder; for it is a ram of consecration:
  • Leviticus 3:15 And the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, which is by the flanks, and the caul above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away.
  • Leviticus 8:16 And he took all the fat that was upon the inwards, and the caul above the liver, and the two kidneys, and their fat, and Moses burned it upon the altar.

“liver” Hebrew H3516 · used in 14 verses

  • Exodus 29:22 Also thou shalt take of the ram the fat and the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and the right shoulder; for it is a ram of consecration:
  • Leviticus 4:9 And the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, which is by the flanks, and the caul above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away,
  • Leviticus 9:10 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.

“kidneys” Hebrew H3629 · used in 26 verses

  • Exodus 29:22 Also thou shalt take of the ram the fat and the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and the right shoulder; for it is a ram of consecration:
  • Leviticus 9:10 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.
  • Psalms 73:21 Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins.

“fat” Hebrew H2459 · used in 69 verses

  • Genesis 4:4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering:
  • Leviticus 7:24 And the fat of the beast that dieth of itself, and the fat of that which is torn with beasts, may be used in any other use: but ye shall in no wise eat of it.
  • 1 Samuel 2:15 Also before they burnt the fat, the priest's servant came, and said to the man that sacrificed, Give flesh to roast for the priest; for he will not have sodden flesh of thee, but raw.