Leviticus 23:38 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 23:38 mean?

Leviticus 23:38 states that the special offerings and sacrifices described in this chapter are to be given in addition to the regular sabbath observances, personal gifts, vows, and freewill offerings that people already bring to the LORD. This verse clarifies that the festival sacrifices do not replace other regular or voluntary offerings.

In this passage, God is speaking through Moses to the Israelites, giving instructions about the various holy days and feasts they are to observe. Leviticus 23:38 comes near the end of a list of these special days, making it clear that these festival offerings are extra and do not take the place of the ongoing commitments and worship practices already expected of the people.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 23:38

• שַׁבַּתּוֹת (shabbatot, H7676): This word refers to the sabbaths, the regular weekly day of rest and worship. The verse emphasizes that the festival offerings are separate from the weekly sabbath sacrifices.
• יְהוָה (YHWH, H3068): This is the personal name of God, often rendered as "the LORD." The verse repeats this name to stress that all these offerings, whether regular or special, are directed to the same God.
• מִנְחָה (minchah, H4979): This word means "gifts" or "grain offerings." It highlights that the regular offerings of grain or food are not replaced by the festival sacrifices.
• נֶדֶר (neder, H5088): This means "vows," referring to offerings promised by individuals as part of personal commitments to God.
• נְדָבָה (nedavah, H5071): This means "freewill offerings," which are voluntary gifts given out of gratitude or devotion.
• נָתַן (natan, H5414): This is the verb "to give," emphasizing the act of presenting these various offerings to God.

Why Leviticus 23:38 matters

• Leviticus 23:38 clarifies that the special festival offerings are not a substitute for the regular sabbath or personal offerings, preventing confusion about what is required.
• The verse highlights the layered nature of Israelite worship, showing that both regular and special acts of devotion are important and distinct.
• By listing different types of offerings—regular, vowed, and voluntary—Leviticus 23:38 shows the variety of ways people could express their relationship with God, underlining the richness and complexity of their worship life.