Leviticus 1 Commentary

Leviticus begins with God speaking to Moses from the newly constructed Tabernacle, also called “the tent of meeting.” The Tabernacle is God’s dwelling place among the Israelites.

God commands Moses to speak to the sons of Israel and declare which types of animals He accepts as offerings. Sacrificial land animals can be chosen from cattle (the herd), as well as sheep and goats (the flock). Later in this chapter the types of sacrificial birds are listed. Three details are given for burnt offerings of the flock or herd. They 1. Must be an unblemished animal, 2. Must be a male, and 3. Must be offered in front of the Tabernacle.

The LORD gives Moses steps for how the burnt offering was to be prepared if it was a bull or ox. These steps include how it was to be killed, and to create smoke as a “soothing aroma to the Lord.”

The LORD gives Moses instructions for burnt offerings that are from the flock, sheep or goats.

The LORD gives Moses instructions for bird offerings.