Leviticus 6:9 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 6:9 mean?

Leviticus 6:9 gives Aaron and his sons a command about how to handle the burnt offering: the offering must stay burning on the altar all night until morning, and the fire on the altar must be kept going. This instruction sets out a specific rule for the priests to follow in their daily duties.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, telling him to instruct Aaron (the high priest) and his sons (the other priests) about the proper way to care for the burnt offering. The focus is on the continual burning of the sacrifice and the fire, showing the importance of constant attention and care in the priests’ service.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 6:9

• "Command" (צַו, tsav): This word is a strong instruction, not just a suggestion. It shows that what follows is a requirement, not an option, for Aaron and his sons.
• "Law" (תּוֹרָה, torah): Here, "torah" means instruction or rule, not just "law" in a legal sense. It refers to the specific procedures for the burnt offering.
• "Burnt offering" (עֹלָה, olah): This word means an offering that is completely burned up, rising in smoke. The total burning is part of what makes this offering unique.
• "Burning" (מִקְטָר, miqtar): This refers to the act of burning or the smoke rising from the altar, emphasizing the ongoing process that must last through the night.

Why Leviticus 6:9 matters

• Leviticus 6:9 highlights the need for the priests’ constant attention to their duties, showing that serving at the altar was a round-the-clock responsibility.
• The verse clarifies that the burnt offering was not a quick or casual act; it required the fire to be kept burning all night, symbolizing dedication and continuity.
• This instruction connects to the larger section in Leviticus about how offerings were to be handled, setting a pattern for the seriousness and care expected in worship.