Leviticus 4:9 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 4:9 mean?

Leviticus 4:9 gives instructions about which parts of an animal are to be removed during a specific sacrifice: the two kidneys, the fat on them near the flanks, and the caul (a fatty membrane) above the liver, along with the kidneys themselves. These details are part of the ritual for a sin offering, showing exactly what the priest must do.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, giving him detailed directions for the priests about how to handle the internal organs and fat of the animal being sacrificed for sin. The focus on certain organs and fat reflects the sacrificial customs of ancient Israel, where these parts were considered significant in offerings made to God.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 4:9

• "two" (שְׁנֵי, sheney): This word specifies that both kidneys are to be taken, not just one, emphasizing completeness in following the ritual.
• "kidneys" (כִּלְיָה, kilyah): The kidneys were seen as important organs in ancient Israelite sacrifices, often associated with the innermost parts of a person.
• "fat" (חֵלֶב, chelev): This word refers to a specific type of fat, considered the best or choicest part, which was reserved for God in the offerings.
• "flanks" (כָּסֶל, kasel): This term points to the area near the lower back or sides of the animal, clarifying exactly where the fat is located.
• "caul" (יֹתֶרֶת, yoteret): This is a unique word for a fatty lobe or membrane above the liver, a detail that shows the careful attention to ritual purity and order.
• "liver" (כָּבֵד, kaved): The liver was also a significant organ in sacrifices, and its mention here highlights the thoroughness of the instructions.
• "away" (סוּר, sur): This verb means to remove or take away, making it clear that these parts are to be separated from the rest of the animal for the offering.

Why Leviticus 4:9 matters

• Leviticus 4:9 clears up which specific animal parts were to be offered to God, showing that the instructions were not general but very precise.
• The verse highlights the seriousness and care involved in the sacrificial system, where even the internal organs and fat had symbolic and ritual importance.
• This detail connects to the larger passage about sin offerings, showing how the Israelites were to approach God with respect and obedience, following every instruction exactly.