Book of Leviticus - Chapter 8 - Verse 21

In this verse, we see the detailed process of offering a burnt sacrifice to the Lord, as commanded by Moses. The act of washing the inwards and legs of the ram in water symbolizes purification and cleansing before presenting the sacrifice to God. The burning of the entire ram on the altar signifies complete devotion and surrender to the Lord. The burnt sacrifice was intended to be a sweet-smelling aroma to God, pleasing and acceptable in His sight. This offering made by fire was a way for the people to show their gratitude, repentance, and dedication to God. By following the instructions given by the Lord through Moses, the people were demonstrating their obedience and reverence for Him. This ritual was a significant part of their worship and relationship with God, serving as a reminder of His holiness, mercy, and grace.

One significant aspect of the verse is the mention of the priest washing the inwards and legs in water before offering the ram as a burnt sacrifice. In the Old Testament, washing was often associated with ritual purity and symbolized cleansing. This act could be seen as a preparation for the sacrifice, signifying the importance of coming before the Lord in a state of purity. Additionally, the burning of the entire ram on the altar was a common practice in ancient sacrificial rituals. It represented the complete dedication of the sacrifice to God. The phrase "a sweet savour" implies that the offering was pleasing to the Lord, indicating that it was done in accordance with His will. The mention of the offering being made "by fire unto the LORD" reinforces the idea of the sacrifice as a gift given to God. Overall, this verse demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's commands and the symbolism behind the sacrificial system in ancient Israel.