Old Testament

Leviticus 3:9

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

From the peace offering, he shall present an offering made by fire to the LORD: the fat, including the whole rump cut off close to the backbone, the fat covering the internal organs, and all the fat upon the internal organs,

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And he shall offer of the sacrifice of the peace offering an offering made by fire unto the LORD; the fat thereof, and the whole rump, it shall he take off hard by the backbone; and the fat that covereth the inwards, and all the fat that is upon the inwards,

What Leviticus 3:9 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Leviticus 3:9, the instructions for the peace offering emphasize the importance of presenting specific parts of the animal to God. The fat, which is considered the best part, is to be offered by fire, symbolizing dedication and worship. The whole rump, cut close to the backbone, along with the fat covering the internal organs, is highlighted. This reflects the idea that offerings to God should be of high quality and represent the giver's devotion. The fat is significant in ancient Israelite culture, often associated with richness and abundance. By offering these parts, the worshiper acknowledges God's provision and seeks peace and fellowship with Him. This act of sacrifice is not just about the physical offering but also about the relationship between the worshiper and God, emphasizing gratitude and reverence.

How to apply Leviticus 3:9 to your life

When we give to God, whether through offerings, time, or service, we should strive to offer our best. This reflects our gratitude and commitment to Him. Consider what you can offer that represents your devotion and brings you closer to God.

Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Leviticus 3:9

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Leviticus 3:9

At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Leviticus 3:9 mean?

Leviticus 3:9 outlines the specific parts of an animal that should be offered as a peace offering to God, emphasizing the importance of giving quality offerings. The fat and the whole rump are highlighted, symbolizing dedication and the worshiper's desire for fellowship with God.

What is the significance of the fat in Leviticus 3:9?

In Leviticus 3:9, the fat is considered the best part of the animal and is offered to God by fire. This act signifies devotion and the acknowledgment of God's provision, reflecting the worshiper's gratitude and reverence.

What is a peace offering according to Leviticus 3:9?

A peace offering, as described in Leviticus 3:9, is a type of sacrifice made to God that expresses gratitude and seeks fellowship. It involves presenting specific parts of the animal, particularly the fat, to symbolize dedication and worship.

What does the whole rump represent in Leviticus 3:9?

The whole rump in Leviticus 3:9 represents a valuable part of the animal that is to be offered to God. Its inclusion in the peace offering highlights the importance of giving one's best to God as an act of worship and devotion.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.