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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 4 - Verse 31

4:31
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.

Meaning

This verse from Leviticus 4:31 outlines the ritualistic sacrifice process in the Israelite culture. In this context, the fat of the sacrifice is symbolic of the best and richest part of the offering, and it is to be taken away and burnt on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the Lord. The act of burning the fat is seen as an act of atonement and forgiveness for the sins committed by the individual offering the sacrifice. It was believed that by presenting the fat of the sacrifice in this way, the individual's sins would be forgiven by God. This act was a way for the priests to intercede on behalf of the people and seek reconciliation with the Lord. The ritual of burning the fat for atonement demonstrates the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness in the Old Testament traditions.

Theological Overview

In this verse from Leviticus, the act of taking away the fat of the sacrifice is a symbolic representation of the purification and removal of sin. In ancient Jewish culture, fat was considered the best part of the animal and was often given as an offering to God. By burning the fat on the altar, the priest is creating a sweet-smelling aroma for the Lord, signifying the pleasing nature of the sacrifice. This act of atonement made by the priest on behalf of the sinner demonstrates the concept of forgiveness and reconciliation with God. The Hebrew word for "atonement" used in this verse, 'kipper,' signifies a covering or wiping away of sin, paving the way for divine forgiveness. Through this ritual, the individual's transgressions are pardoned, and they are restored to a state of purity and righteousness in the eyes of the Lord.

American Standard Version

And all the fat thereof shall he take away, 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 savor unto Jehovah; and the priest shall make atonement for him, and he shall be forgiven.
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