Question 1

What does Leviticus 19:7 mean?

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 19:7 says that if a sacrifice is eaten on the third day after it was offered, it is considered disgusting and will not be accepted by God. The verse sets a strict limit on how long the meat from certain offerings could be consumed, emphasizing that eating it too late makes it unacceptable. In this verse, God is speaking to the Israelites through Moses, giving specific instructions about offerings made for fellowship or peace. The rule is part of a larger set of guidelines about holiness and proper worship. The focus is on keeping the sacrificial process pure and showing respect for what is dedicated to God, rather than treating it like ordinary food.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 19:7

Accepted Answer

"abominable" (פִּגּוּל, piggul): This word means something that is foul or detestable, especially in a ritual sense. It is a strong term, showing that eating the sacrifice on the third day is not just a minor mistake but a serious violation of what is holy. "accepted" (רָצָה, ratsah): This word means to be pleasing or accepted, especially by God. Here, it highlights that following the rules for offerings is necessary for God to accept the sacrifice.

Question 3

Why Leviticus 19:7 matters

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 19:7 clarifies that not all mistakes in worship are minor; some actions, like eating a sacrifice too late, completely invalidate the offering. The verse shows the seriousness with which God wanted the Israelites to treat sacrifices, making clear boundaries between what is holy and what is not. This instruction connects to the broader theme in Leviticus of setting apart certain practices and times as sacred, helping the Israelites understand the importance of obedience in their relationship with God.

Leviticus 19:7 (KJV)