And he took all the fat that was upon the inwards, and the caul above the liver, and the two kidneys, and their fat, and Moses burned it upon the altar.

LEVITICUS 8:16KJV
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Leviticus 8:16 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 8:16 mean?

Leviticus 8:16 describes Moses taking specific parts of an animal—the fat covering the inner organs, the fatty lobe above the liver, and the two kidneys with their fat—and burning them on the altar as part of a ritual offering. This verse details a step in the ordination ceremony for priests, showing the careful handling of each part of the sacrifice.

In this setting, Moses is carrying out God’s instructions for consecrating Aaron and his sons as priests. The focus on the fat and certain inner organs reflects the sacrificial practices described earlier in Leviticus, where these parts were often set apart for burning as a pleasing aroma to God. The verse highlights the care and obedience involved in following the ritual exactly as commanded.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 8:16

  • The word for "fat" is חֵלֶב (chelev), which refers to the best or richest fat, especially the kind covering the organs. This fat was considered especially significant in offerings, reserved for burning to God rather than for human consumption.
  • The term for "inwards" is קֶרֶב (qerev), meaning the inner parts or entrails of the animal. This shows the offering involved more than just the outer flesh, focusing on the most vital parts.
  • "Caul" is יֹתֶרֶת (yoteret), which is often understood as a fatty lobe or appendage above the liver. Its specific mention points to the detailed knowledge and care required in the ritual.
  • "Burned" is קָטַר (qatar), meaning to turn into smoke or offer up in smoke. This word emphasizes that these parts were not just removed, but intentionally burned as an act of worship.

Why Leviticus 8:16 matters

  • Leviticus 8:16 clears up that not every part of the animal was treated the same way in sacrifices; some parts were specially set aside for burning, showing a distinction in what was offered directly to God.
  • The verse emphasizes the importance of following God’s instructions in detail, especially in matters of worship and priestly service.
  • This step in the ordination ceremony connects to earlier sacrificial laws, showing continuity and reinforcing the sacredness of the priesthood and the altar.

Where else these words appear

“caul” Hebrew H3508 · used in 11 verses

  • Exodus 29:13 And thou shalt take all the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul that is above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and burn them upon the altar.
  • Leviticus 3:10 And the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, which is by the flanks, and the caul above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away.
  • Leviticus 7:4 And the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, which is by the flanks, and the caul that is above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away:

“liver” Hebrew H3516 · used in 14 verses

  • Exodus 29:13 And thou shalt take all the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul that is above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and burn them upon the altar.
  • Leviticus 3:15 And the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, which is by the flanks, and the caul above the liver, with the kidneys, it shall he take away.
  • Leviticus 9:10 But the fat, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver of the sin offering, he burnt upon the altar; as the LORD commanded Moses.

“kidneys” Hebrew H3629 · used in 26 verses

  • Exodus 29:13 And thou shalt take all the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul that is above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and burn them upon the altar.
  • Leviticus 9:10 But the fat, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver of the sin offering, he burnt upon the altar; as the LORD commanded Moses.
  • Psalms 73:21 Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins.

“fat” Hebrew H2459 · used in 69 verses

  • Genesis 4:4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering:
  • Leviticus 7:23 Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Ye shall eat no manner of fat, of ox, or of sheep, or of goat.
  • 1 Samuel 2:15 Also before they burnt the fat, the priest's servant came, and said to the man that sacrificed, Give flesh to roast for the priest; for he will not have sodden flesh of thee, but raw.