Leviticus 7:34 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 7:34 mean?

Leviticus 7:34 explains that God took specific parts of the peace offerings—the "wave breast" and the "heave shoulder"—from the Israelites’ sacrifices and gave them to Aaron the priest and his sons as a permanent rule. This verse sets out which parts of certain offerings belong to the priests as their portion, by God’s command.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, giving instructions for the Israelites about the peace offerings. The "wave breast" and "heave shoulder" refer to particular cuts of meat from the animal sacrifice that were to be given to the priests. This arrangement provided for the priests and their families, showing how the offerings supported those serving in the tabernacle.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 7:34

• "wave" (תְּנוּפָה, tenuphah): This word means a lifting or waving motion, symbolizing the offering being presented before God. The "wave breast" was ceremonially moved before the altar as part of the ritual.
• "heave" (תְּרוּמָה, terumah): This word means a contribution or an offering that is lifted up. The "heave shoulder" was raised up as a special portion for the priests.
• "statute" (חֹק, choq): This word means an established rule or ordinance. Calling this a "statute for ever" emphasizes that this priestly portion was to be a lasting practice among the Israelites.

Why Leviticus 7:34 matters

• This verse clarifies that certain parts of the offerings were not burned or eaten by the offerer, but were reserved for the priests, ensuring their livelihood.
• It highlights the structured way God provided for those serving in the tabernacle, connecting worship with practical community support.
• The verse ties into the larger context of Leviticus, where detailed instructions show the order and care in Israel’s worship and community life.