Old Testament
Leviticus 7:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
However, if the offering is given to fulfill a vow or as a voluntary gift, it should be eaten on the day it is offered, but whatever is left over may also be eaten the next day.
Compare translations
But if the sacrifice of his offering be a vow, or a voluntary offering, it shall be eaten the same day that he offereth his sacrifice: and on the morrow also the remainder of it shall be eaten:
What Leviticus 7:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 7:16, the guidelines for consuming offerings are outlined, particularly focusing on those given as vows or voluntary gifts. When someone makes a vow to God or offers a gift willingly, they are instructed to eat the offering on the same day it is presented. This emphasizes the importance of honoring commitments promptly. Any leftover food from the offering can be consumed the following day, but it must be eaten within this time frame to maintain its sanctity. This practice reflects the seriousness of the vow and the joy of giving freely to God. It also highlights the communal aspect of offerings, as they are often shared among family and friends, fostering a sense of gratitude and celebration. Overall, this verse teaches about the proper handling of sacred offerings and the importance of fulfilling one's promises to God in a timely manner.
How to apply Leviticus 7:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to honor our commitments and be prompt in fulfilling our promises, especially to God. It also reminds us to share our blessings with others, fostering community and gratitude in our lives. Reflect on how you can give freely and joyfully.
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.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 PlansAsk AI about Leviticus 7:16
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 7:16
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 7:16 mean?
Leviticus 7:16 outlines the rules for consuming offerings made as vows or voluntary gifts. It states that these offerings should be eaten on the same day they are presented, with any leftovers allowed to be eaten the next day.
What is the significance of eating offerings on the same day in Leviticus 7:16?
Eating offerings on the same day emphasizes the importance of honoring commitments to God promptly. It reflects the sacredness of the vow and the joy of giving freely.
What are voluntary offerings in Leviticus 7:16?
Voluntary offerings are gifts given to God willingly, not out of obligation. Leviticus 7:16 specifies that these offerings should be consumed on the day they are offered.
How does Leviticus 7:16 relate to community sharing?
Leviticus 7:16 encourages communal sharing by allowing offerings to be shared among family and friends. This practice fosters gratitude and celebration within the community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.