Leviticus 7:29 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 7:29 mean?

Leviticus 7:29 gives a command from God to the Israelites that anyone who offers a peace offering to the LORD must also personally bring their own offering along with the sacrifice. This verse emphasizes that the act of sacrifice involves a personal responsibility to bring a specific portion, called an "oblation," to God.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, telling him to instruct the Israelites about the proper way to present peace offerings. The setting is the giving of detailed instructions for worship at the Tabernacle. The verse highlights that bringing an offering is not just a ritual, but an intentional act where the worshiper is directly involved in presenting something to God.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 7:29

• "Oblation" is from קָרְבָּן (qorban), which means an offering or gift brought near to God. This word stresses the idea of drawing close to God through the act of giving.
• "Peace offerings" is from שֶׁלֶם (shelem), which refers to offerings made for fellowship or well-being, often expressing gratitude or fulfillment of a vow. This term points to the relational aspect of the sacrifice, not just a ritual duty.
• "Offereth" is from קָרַב (qarav), meaning to bring near or present. The use of this word underlines the personal action required—the worshiper must actively bring the offering, not just have it done on their behalf.

Why Leviticus 7:29 matters

• This verse clarifies that sacrifices were not just priestly duties; the individual worshiper had a role in bringing their own offering, making worship a personal act.
• Leviticus 7:29 helps explain the process and meaning behind peace offerings, showing that they were about relationship and thankfulness, not just ritual.
• The verse connects to the broader section in Leviticus that details how different offerings were to be handled, emphasizing order and intentionality in worship practices.