Leviticus 7:31 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 7:31 mean?

Leviticus 7:31 explains that the priest is to burn the fat of the sacrifice on the altar, but the breast portion of the animal is to be given to Aaron and his sons, who are the priests. This verse sets out how the parts of a peace offering are divided between the altar and the priests.

In this part of Leviticus, God is giving Moses instructions for the Israelites about offerings and sacrifices. The focus here is on the peace offering, a type of sacrifice made for fellowship with God. The verse shows that while certain parts of the animal (the fat) are burned as an offering to God, other parts (the breast) are designated as food for the priests, Aaron and his sons, as part of their share from the offerings.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 7:31

• The word for "priest" is כֹּהֵן (kohen), which refers to someone from Aaron’s family who serves in the sanctuary. This highlights that only those set apart as priests could perform this ritual.
• The word for "burn" is קָטַר (qatar), which means to offer something up in smoke, specifically as a sacrifice. This isn’t just burning for disposal; it’s a ritual act meant to send the offering up to God.
• The word for "fat" is חֵלֶב (chelev), which refers to the specific fatty portions of the animal that were considered the best and most sacred part, reserved for God.
• The word for "altar" is מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbeach), the special structure where sacrifices were made, marking this as a formal act of worship.
• The word for "breast" is חָזֶה (chazeh), meaning the chest or breast of the animal, which was given as a special portion to the priests.

Why Leviticus 7:31 matters

• Leviticus 7:31 clarifies that not all parts of a sacrifice were burned; some were set aside for the priests, showing how God provided for those serving in the sanctuary.
• The verse emphasizes the careful division of offerings, which helps explain the priestly system and the practical needs of those who led worship in ancient Israel.
• This instruction connects to the wider passage by showing the detailed organization of worship and sacrifice, highlighting both reverence for God and care for the priestly families.