(Reflections on Leviticus 7)
In Leviticus 7, we encounter detailed instructions about various sacrificial offerings—particularly focusing on what we call the Peace or Fellowship Offering (Hebrew: Zevach Shelamim). The term Shelamim relates to Shalom, a concept encapsulating rich, abundant peace. This particular sacrifice portrays a profound intimacy between God and His people.
A fascinating aspect is that the Peace Offering was partly consumed by priests, partly by the worshipper and their family, and symbolically shared with God. This communal meal represented communion—a special moment when God and His people dined symbolically together, signifying harmony, peace, and blessing.
Historical Insight: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, dining with others symbolized friendship, unity, and a reciprocal bond of honor and protection. How much more profound is it, then, when the host is the Lord Almighty Himself?
In the New Testament, this concept finds fulfillment in the practice of Communion (the Lord’s Supper), as Christ invites believers to His table, signifying our reconciliation and communion with God and each other.
Cross Reference:
> “Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a
participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break
a participation in the body of Christ?”
> (1 Corinthians 10:16, New International Version)
Leviticus 7 also provides details about specific dietary prohibitions, notably the forbidding of consuming blood and certain fats. To a Western audience, such restrictions might seem puzzling. But the meaning goes deeper: blood represented life itself (Lev 17:11), and God decreed that life belonged solely to Him. Refraining from consuming blood showed reverence and acknowledgment of God’s sovereign ownership over life.
Additionally, the fat portions were considered the most prized and best part of the offering. Reserving this portion for God was practical teaching: offer your very best to Him without reservation.
Cross Reference:
> “For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to
you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar…”
> (Leviticus 17:11, New International Version)
The instructions here clearly established that the priests received a portion from the offerings brought by the people. This practice supported and sustained the priests—the Levites, who did not possess land or property as did the other tribes. God carefully provided for those who ministered before Him.
From this tradition later emerged the concept of hospitality and mutual care within the faith community. We see reflections of this attitude in the early church (Acts 2:42-45), as believers shared resources to sustain and support one another in ministry and community.
Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, this practice reminded worshippers that ministry and spiritual leadership can only flourish within a supportive community where shared responsibility sustains mutual growth.
Throughout history, theologians such as Augustine and Calvin have emphasized how the Peace Offering foreshadowed Christ. Augustine famously wrote on how Christ became the bridge—the “peace”—between sinful humanity and a holy God. Calvin, similarly, reminds us that the fellowship offerings pointed forward to the coming of Christ and our communion through Him. Christ Himself is our everlasting peace (Ephesians 2:14-18), reconciling us not only to God but also uniting us as one family.
Hymn Suggestion:
“Come, Share the Lord” by Bryan Jeffery Leech beautifully captures this
sense of sacred fellowship and unity.
As mature Christians seeking deeper spiritual understanding, we can find comfort and beauty in Leviticus 7. It reminds us of the privilege of true fellowship with our Creator—the holy communion we share in Christ. Historically, these ancient rituals now serve as meaningful signposts, helping us more fully grasp the depth of Christ’s sacrifice for us and the intimate fellowship He offers.
Today, consider your own spiritual offerings and communion with Christ and His Church. Are you bringing your very best to God, recognizing His rightful claim upon your gifts, time, talents, and resources?
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for tirelessly revealing Yourself through the sacred
Scripture.
Thank You that through Christ’s blood we have eternal communion with
You.
Help us respect Your holiness and sacrificial love. Teach us to bring
our best before You each day—not from compulsion, but from loving hearts
filled with gratitude.
Bind us closer as Your people, and unite us more deeply in peace and
love, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.