Leviticus 22:21 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 22:21 mean?

Leviticus 22:21 says that anyone who brings a peace offering to God, whether to fulfill a vow or as a voluntary gift, must offer an animal without any defect for it to be accepted. The animal, whether from cattle or sheep, must be perfect and free from any blemish.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, giving instructions for the Israelites about sacrifices. The focus is on the quality of the animal offered—only an unblemished animal is acceptable for a peace offering, whether it is to fulfill a promise (a vow) or given freely. This requirement shows the seriousness and respect expected when approaching God with gifts or commitments.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 22:21

• "Perfect" (תָּמִים, tamim): This word means whole, complete, or without defect. The command for the offering to be "perfect" stresses that only the best and most complete animals are suitable for God, not those with flaws or injuries.
• "Blemish" (מוּם, mum): This word refers to any physical imperfection or defect. The verse insists there must be no "blemish" in the animal, highlighting the importance of purity and integrity in worship.
• "Accepted" (רָצוֹן, ratson): This word means favor or acceptance. The animal must be without defect to be "accepted" by God, showing that God does not accept just any offering, but only those that meet His standards.

Why Leviticus 22:21 matters

• Leviticus 22:21 clarifies that God cares about the quality and integrity of what is offered to Him, not just the act of offering itself.
• The verse connects to the broader theme in Leviticus of holiness and setting apart what is given to God, emphasizing that worship involves respect and careful attention.
• This requirement for unblemished offerings helps explain later biblical references to sacrifices and the idea of giving God the best, not leftovers or what is unwanted.