Old Testament
Leviticus 4:31
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He must remove all the fat, just as fat is removed from a peace offering, and the priest must burn it on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD. In this way the priest will make atonement for that person, and they will be forgiven.
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And he shall take away all the fat thereof, as the fat is taken away from off the sacrifice of peace offerings; and the priest shall burn it upon the altar for a sweet savour unto the LORD; and the priest shall make an atonement for him, and it shall be forgiven him.
What Leviticus 4:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 4:31, the process of atonement is described, focusing on the removal of fat from the animal being sacrificed. The fat, which is considered the best part of the offering, is burned on the altar, creating a pleasing aroma to God. This act symbolizes the dedication of the offering to the Lord and serves as a means for the priest to make atonement for the individual who has sinned. By following this ritual, the person is assured of forgiveness. The emphasis on the fat being removed highlights the importance of giving God the best in our offerings, as well as the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God through proper sacrifice. This passage illustrates the connection between sacrifice, atonement, and divine forgiveness, showing how God provides a way for His people to restore their relationship with Him after wrongdoing.
How to apply Leviticus 4:31 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of offering our best to God, whether in our actions, time, or resources. It encourages us to seek forgiveness sincerely and to understand the significance of repentance in our relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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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 4:31 mean?
Leviticus 4:31 describes the ritual of atonement where the fat of a sacrificed animal is removed and burned on the altar. This act symbolizes giving God the best part of the offering and serves as a means for the priest to make atonement for the sinner, ensuring forgiveness.
What is the significance of fat in Leviticus 4:31?
In Leviticus 4:31, fat represents the best part of the sacrifice, which is dedicated to God. Its removal and burning signify the importance of offering our best to the Lord and highlight the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.
How does Leviticus 4:31 relate to forgiveness?
Leviticus 4:31 illustrates that through the proper sacrifice and ritual, individuals can receive forgiveness for their sins. The priest's actions in burning the fat symbolize the restoration of the relationship between the sinner and God.
What can we learn from Leviticus 4:31?
From Leviticus 4:31, we learn the importance of offering our best to God and the significance of sincere repentance. It teaches that through proper rituals and sacrifices, we can seek forgiveness and restore our relationship with God.
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