Leviticus 7:16 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 7:16 mean?

Leviticus 7:16 explains that if someone brings a sacrifice as part of a vow or as a voluntary offering, the meat from that sacrifice can be eaten both on the day it is offered and on the following day. Any leftover meat after the second day is not addressed in this verse but is dealt with in the next verse.

In this part of Leviticus, God is giving Moses instructions for the Israelites about how to handle different types of sacrifices. The verse distinguishes between sacrifices made for vows (promises to God) and voluntary offerings (given freely, not required). The main point is that these offerings have a slightly longer time frame for eating the meat compared to some other sacrifices, showing a practical concern for the people bringing them.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 7:16

• "Vow" (נֶדֶר, neder): This word means a promise or commitment made to God. Sacrifices connected to vows were often made in fulfillment of a specific pledge.
• "Voluntary offering" (נְדָבָה, nedavah): This term refers to a freewill offering, something given out of generosity rather than obligation. The verse treats these offerings with the same rules as those for vows.
• "Eaten" (אָכַל, akhal): The instruction about when the meat may be eaten is specific, emphasizing the importance of following the ritual timing for consuming sacrificial food.
• "Morrow" (מָחָר, machar): This word means "the next day," clarifying that the permission to eat the sacrifice extends beyond the day of offering, but only for one additional day.

Why Leviticus 7:16 matters

• Leviticus 7:16 clarifies that not all sacrifices have the same rules for consumption; some, like vow and voluntary offerings, allow for a longer period to eat the meat, which helps avoid waste and shows consideration for the offerer.
• This verse highlights the careful organization and structure of sacrificial laws in Leviticus, showing that different types of offerings had different requirements based on their purpose and motivation.
• Understanding this verse helps make sense of the broader context of Leviticus 7, where various types of offerings are described in detail, each with its own procedures and time limits.