Leviticus 2:6 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 2:6 mean?

Leviticus 2:6 gives instructions for preparing a grain offering: the person bringing the offering is to break it into pieces and pour oil on it before presenting it. This verse is part of a larger set of directions about how Israelites were to bring offerings to God in the tabernacle.

In this passage, God is speaking to Moses, who is to relay these instructions to the people of Israel. The context is the detailed laws for various types of offerings, with this verse focusing on the “meat offering” (more accurately, a grain or meal offering). The process described—breaking the offering and adding oil—shows the care and specific steps involved in worship practices at that time.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 2:6

• The word “part” (פָּרַר, parar) means to break or divide. Here, it directs the offerer to break the grain offering into smaller pieces, not just present it whole.
• “Pieces” (פִּתִּים, pittim) refers to fragments or small parts. This emphasizes that the offering is to be divided up, possibly to help with burning it or sharing it among the priests.
• “Pour” (יָצַק, yatsaq) means to pour or spread out, specifically referring to pouring oil over the broken pieces.
• “Oil” (שֶׁמֶן, shemen) is olive oil, a valuable and common ingredient in offerings, symbolizing richness or dedication.
• “Offering” (מִנְחָה, minchah) is the word for a grain or meal offering, not meat, despite the KJV wording. This offering was made from flour, oil, and sometimes frankincense.

Why Leviticus 2:6 matters

• The verse clarifies that the “meat offering” in the KJV actually refers to a grain offering, not animal flesh, which can prevent confusion about what was being offered.
• The instructions to break the offering and pour oil show that worship in ancient Israel involved specific, meaningful actions, not just the materials themselves.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by showing the careful, step-by-step process God expected for offerings, highlighting the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.