Leviticus 7:8 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 7:8 mean?

Leviticus 7:8 states that when a priest offers a burnt offering for someone, the skin (hide) of that animal belongs to the priest who performed the sacrifice. This rule sets aside a specific portion of the offering as a practical provision for the priest.

In this verse, God is giving instructions to Moses for the priests of Israel about how offerings are to be handled. The context is the system of sacrifices at the tabernacle, where priests served on behalf of the people. The skin of the burnt offering, which was not burned on the altar, was given to the priest as part of his share, showing how the priesthood was supported through the offerings.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 7:8

• "priest" (כֹּהֵן, kohen): This word refers specifically to the Israelite priests, descendants of Aaron, who had the duty of offering sacrifices. The verse singles out the individual priest who actually performs the ritual.
• "offereth" (קָרַב, qarav): This verb means "to bring near" or "to offer." Here, it emphasizes the active role of the priest in carrying out the sacrifice.
• "offering" (עֹלָה, olah): This is the word for a burnt offering, a specific type of sacrifice that was entirely burned except for the skin. Knowing this helps explain why the skin was left over to be given to the priest.
• "skin" (עוֹר, or): This term means the hide or skin of the animal. The skin was a valuable item, and its assignment to the priest was a practical benefit.

Why Leviticus 7:8 matters

• Leviticus 7:8 clarifies that not all parts of the burnt offering were consumed on the altar; the skin was intentionally set aside for the priest, which might surprise readers who assume everything was burned.
• This verse highlights how the priesthood was provided for materially through the sacrificial system, showing a practical side to the religious rituals.
• The instruction fits into a larger section of Leviticus that details the rights and responsibilities of priests, helping readers see how the sacrificial system worked in everyday life for both priests and worshippers.