Leviticus 1:10 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 1:10 mean?

Leviticus 1:10 says that if someone wants to offer a burnt sacrifice from their flock, they can bring either a sheep or a goat, but it must be a male animal with no defects. This instruction sets a clear standard for what kind of animal is acceptable for this specific offering.

In this verse, God is giving Moses instructions for the Israelites about how to properly bring a burnt offering, which was a way of worship and dedication. The focus on a male animal "without blemish" highlights the importance of offering something valuable and unspoiled. This verse is part of a larger set of rules in Leviticus about different kinds of sacrifices and how they should be carried out.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 1:10

• "offering" (קָרְבָּן, qorban): This word means something brought near or presented, emphasizing that the sacrifice is meant to draw the person closer to God.
• "flocks" (צֹאן, tson): This refers to smaller livestock, specifically sheep and goats, showing that not only cattle but also these animals could be used for offerings.
• "male" (זָכָר, zakhar): The requirement for a male animal often pointed to what was considered the most valuable or desirable for sacrifice.
• "blemish" (תָּמִים, tamim): This word means "without defect" or "whole," stressing that only the best and healthiest animals were acceptable for this act of worship.

Why Leviticus 1:10 matters

• Leviticus 1:10 clarifies that both sheep and goats were acceptable for burnt offerings, not just one type of animal, which made the practice accessible to more people.
• The verse emphasizes the need for an unblemished male animal, underlining the seriousness and respect required in approaching God with an offering.
• This instruction fits into a larger pattern in Leviticus where God gives detailed guidelines for worship, showing that the way people approached God was not left to personal preference but was carefully directed.