Leviticus 10:15 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 10:15 mean?

Leviticus 10:15 explains that the priests are to receive the heave shoulder and the wave breast from the animal sacrifices, after these parts have been presented to God as special offerings. These portions are given to Aaron and his sons as a permanent rule, just as God commanded.

In this verse, God is speaking to Aaron and his sons, the priests, about their share of the offerings brought by the Israelites. The "heave shoulder" and "wave breast" refer to specific parts of the animal that are lifted or waved before God in a ritual act, then given to the priests as their rightful portion. This instruction is part of a larger set of rules about how offerings are to be handled and how the priests are provided for in their service.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 10:15

• "Heave" (תְּרוּמָה, terumah) and "shoulder" (שׁוֹק, shoq): "Heave" means to lift up or present, and "shoulder" is the part of the animal given. This act sets apart the portion for God and then for the priests.
• "Wave" (תְּנוּפָה, tenufah) and "breast" (חָזֶה, chazeh): "Wave" means to move back and forth before God, and "breast" is the specific part offered. The waving is a symbolic gesture of dedication.
• "Statute" (חֻקָּה, chuqqah) and "ever" (עוֹלָם, olam): These words show that this rule is meant to last for all generations, not just for Aaron’s time.

Why Leviticus 10:15 matters

• Leviticus 10:15 clarifies that the priests’ share of the offerings is not arbitrary but is a permanent and divinely commanded arrangement.
• This verse highlights the careful way God provided for the priests, ensuring their needs were met through the community’s offerings.
• Understanding this rule helps make sense of the wider system of sacrifices and priestly duties described throughout Leviticus, showing how ritual and practical needs were woven together.