08/09/2022 – Day 163 – Leviticus 1 – 3 – Book introduction & summary
I am sharing with you once again, my Halley’s Bible Handbook commentary:
Leviticus
Sacrifices / The Priesthood / Holy Seasons / Various Laws
“The word “Leviticus” means ‘pertaining to Levites’, that is, the book contains the Systems of Laws, administered by the Levitical Priesthood, under which the Hebrews nation lived. These laws were given mostly at Mt. Sinai, with additions, repetitions and explanations, throughout the Wilderness wanderings.
Levites, one tribe out of the Twelve, were set apart for the work of God. God took them, in lieu of First-Born sons. God claimed the First-Born, both of men and flocks. They were supported by Tithes; and had 48 cities (Numbers 35:7; Joshua 21:19).
One family of Levites, Aaron and Sons, were set apart to be Priests. The Rest of the Levites were to be Assistants to the Priests. Their duties were the care of the Tabernacle, and later, the care of the Temple; and to be Teacherrs, Scribes, Musicians, Officers, and Judges. (See on 1 Chronicles 23.)
Chapters 1 to 5. Various Kinds of Offerings
Burnt Offerings: of Bullocks, Rams, Goats, Doves, Pigeons: were wholly burned, signifying entire Self-Dedication to God.
Meal–Offerings; of Grain, Flour or Cakes, without leaven: a handful was burned: the rest was for the priests.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Peace-Offerings: of Cattle, Sheep, or Goats: the fat was burne: the rest, eaten, partly by priests , partly by offerors.