Leviticus 2:16 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 2:16 mean?

Leviticus 2:16 describes how the priest is to burn a portion of the grain offering—specifically some of the crushed grain, some oil, and all the frankincense—as a memorial portion on the altar, making it an offering by fire to the LORD. This act sets apart part of the offering to be completely given to God, marking it as holy and dedicated.

In the context of Leviticus, God is giving Moses instructions for the Israelites on how to present grain offerings at the tabernacle. The priest’s role is to take a representative part of the offering and burn it, which is called the “memorial” portion. This burning, with oil and frankincense, creates a pleasing aroma and symbolizes giving the best part directly to God, while the rest of the offering could be used by the priests.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 2:16

• The word for “priest” (כֹּהֵן, kohen) refers to the person set apart to serve in the sanctuary, highlighting the special role of mediating between the people and God.
• “Burn” (קָטַר, qatar) means to turn something into smoke on the altar, often with the sense of making a fragrant offering, not just destroying it by fire.
• “Memorial” (אַזְכָּרָה, azkarah) refers to the portion meant to bring the offerer to remembrance before God, emphasizing that this act is about being remembered by God in a favorable way.
• “Frankincense” (לְבוֹנָה, levonah) is a fragrant resin, and burning all of it (not just a part) with the offering highlights the importance of the aroma and the act of complete dedication.

Why Leviticus 2:16 matters

• Leviticus 2:16 clarifies that not the entire grain offering was burned, but only a specific portion, helping readers understand the practical process of Old Testament offerings.
• The verse emphasizes the idea of a “memorial” portion, showing that offerings were not just about giving things up, but about being remembered by God through a dedicated act.
• This instruction connects to the larger theme in Leviticus of holiness and proper worship, showing how even everyday things like grain and oil could be set apart for God in a meaningful way.