Old Testament
Leviticus 9:20
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They placed the fat portions on top of the breast pieces, and Aaron burned the fat on the altar.
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And they put the fat upon the breasts, and he burnt the fat upon the altar:
What Leviticus 9:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the priests are performing a sacrificial ritual as instructed by God. They place the fat portions of the animal on top of the breast pieces, which are part of the offering. The fat is then burned on the altar, signifying that it is being offered to God. This act of burning the fat represents the dedication of the best parts of the sacrifice to God, as fat was considered the most desirable part of the animal. This ritual is part of the larger context of the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, highlighting the importance of proper worship and the role of the priesthood in mediating between God and the people. The act of burning the fat also symbolizes the idea of atonement and the need for purification in the relationship between God and humanity.
How to apply Leviticus 9:20 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of giving our best to God in our worship and service. Just as the fat was burned as an offering, we should dedicate our time, talents, and resources to honor God. It encourages us to reflect on how we can offer our best in our daily lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Aaron and His Sons Become Priests (Leviticus 8:1–9:24)
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Moses
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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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 9:20 mean?
Leviticus 9:20 describes a ritual where the priests place the fat portions of a sacrifice on the breast pieces and burn them on the altar, signifying the offering of the best parts of the animal to God.
What is the significance of burning fat in Leviticus 9:20?
Burning the fat in Leviticus 9:20 symbolizes the dedication of the most desirable parts of the sacrifice to God, representing atonement and the purification of the relationship between God and humanity.
Why is fat considered important in Leviticus 9:20?
In Leviticus 9:20, fat is considered important because it was viewed as the most desirable part of the animal, and burning it on the altar signifies offering the best to God.
How does Leviticus 9:20 relate to worship?
Leviticus 9:20 illustrates the act of giving one's best in worship, as the priests dedicate the fat portions to God, reminding us to offer our best in our own lives.
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