Leviticus 1:17 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 1:17 mean?

Leviticus 1:17 gives instructions for how a priest should prepare a bird offering for sacrifice: the priest is to tear the bird open by its wings without completely separating it, then burn it on the altar as a burnt offering, which is described as pleasing to the LORD. The verse emphasizes the careful handling of the sacrifice and that this offering, though small, is accepted by God as a "sweet savour."

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, who is to relay these instructions to the Israelites about how to offer burnt sacrifices. The setting is the early days of Israel’s worship system, where detailed rules are given for different types of offerings. The verse shows that even a simple offering, like a bird, is valuable when offered properly, and highlights the priest’s role in making sure the ritual is done exactly as instructed.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 1:17

• "Cleave" (בָּקַע, baqa‘, H8156) means to split or tear open. Here, it refers to the priest tearing the bird open at the wings, but not fully dividing it. This detail shows the care and respect given to even the smallest offering.
• "Wings" (כָּנָף, kanaph, H3671) refers to the literal wings of the bird. The instruction to tear at the wings, but not to divide the bird completely, sets this ritual apart from other animal sacrifices, which are usually cut into pieces.
• "Asunder" (בָּדַל, badal, H914) means to separate or divide. The command not to divide the bird asunder means the bird remains in one piece, symbolizing wholeness even in sacrifice.
• "Burn" (קָטַר, qatar, H6999) is the word for burning an offering so that its smoke rises. This word is often used for offerings that are completely consumed by fire, emphasizing the total dedication of the sacrifice to God.

Why Leviticus 1:17 matters

• This verse clarifies that even the smallest and simplest offerings, like a bird, are treated with care and are fully accepted by God when offered according to His instructions.
• The specific instructions about not dividing the bird completely show the importance of following God’s directions exactly, highlighting the priest’s responsibility in the sacrificial process.
• Leviticus 1:17 connects to the wider passage by showing that there are different types of burnt offerings for people of different means, but all are valued when given with respect and obedience.