Leviticus 3:6 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 3:6 mean?

Leviticus 3:6 explains that if someone brings a peace offering to the LORD from their flock, whether the animal is male or female, it must be without any defect. This instruction sets a clear standard for what kind of animal is acceptable for this type of sacrifice.

In this verse, God is giving Moses specific rules to pass on to the Israelites about sacrifices. The peace offering, a type of sacrifice meant for fellowship or thanksgiving, could come from sheep or goats (the flock), and both males and females were allowed, as long as the animal was perfect and healthy. This reflects the importance of offering something valuable and unblemished to God.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 3:6

• "offering" (קָרְבָּן, qorban): This word means something brought near or presented, emphasizing that the sacrifice is a gift brought close to God.
• "sacrifice" (זֶבַח, zevach): This term refers specifically to an animal sacrifice, highlighting that this is not just any gift, but one involving the life of an animal.
• "offering" (שֶׁלֶם, shelem): This word is often translated as "peace offering" and is related to the idea of wholeness or well-being, showing that the sacrifice is about restoring or celebrating peace with God.
• "flock" (צֹאן, tson): This refers to sheep or goats, making clear which animals are acceptable for this particular offering.
• "male" (זָכָר, zakhar) and "female" (נְקֵבָה, neqevah): Both genders are allowed, which is notable because some other sacrifices required only males.
• "blemish" (תָּמִים, tamim): This word means "without defect" or "perfect," stressing that only the best animals were suitable for offering.

Why Leviticus 3:6 matters

• Leviticus 3:6 clarifies that both male and female animals could be offered as a peace offering, which is different from some other sacrifices that required only males.
• The requirement for the animal to be "without blemish" shows the importance of giving God the best, not something flawed or unwanted.
• This verse helps set the pattern for the rest of Leviticus, where the details of sacrifices teach about approaching God with respect, care, and sincerity.