Topical Encyclopedia
BloodIn the biblical context, blood holds significant theological and symbolic meaning. It is often associated with life, covenant, sacrifice, and atonement. The Hebrew word for blood is "dam," and in the New Testament, the Greek word is "haima."
1.
Life and Sanctity: Blood is intrinsically linked to life itself. In
Genesis 9:4, God commands Noah, "But you must not eat meat with its lifeblood still in it." This command underscores the sanctity of life, as blood represents the life force of a creature.
Leviticus 17:11 further emphasizes this, stating, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life."
2.
Covenant: Blood is a critical element in the establishment of covenants. In the Old Testament, the Mosaic Covenant was ratified with blood.
Exodus 24:8 records, "So Moses took the blood, sprinkled it on the people, and said, 'This is the blood of the covenant that the LORD has made with you in accordance with all these words.'" In the New Testament, Jesus speaks of His blood as the new covenant, as seen in
Matthew 26:28: "This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins."
3.
Sacrifice and Atonement: Blood is central to the sacrificial system established in the Law of Moses. The shedding of blood was required for the atonement of sins.
Hebrews 9:22 states, "According to the Law, in fact, nearly everything must be purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness." The sacrificial system foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood provides eternal redemption.
4.
Purity and Prohibition: The consumption of blood is strictly prohibited in the Scriptures.
Leviticus 17:10-14 outlines the prohibition against eating blood, emphasizing that it is to be poured out and covered with earth. This prohibition is reiterated in the New Testament in
Acts 15:20, where the apostles instruct Gentile believers to abstain from blood.
FatIn the biblical narrative, fat is often associated with offerings and sacrifices. The Hebrew word for fat is "cheleb," and it is considered the best or choicest part of the animal.
1.
Offerings and Sacrifices: Fat was regarded as the best portion of the sacrificial animal and was to be offered to God.
Leviticus 3:16 states, "All the fat belongs to the LORD." This command highlights the principle of giving God the best, as the fat was seen as the richest part of the animal.
2.
Prohibition of Consumption: Similar to blood, the consumption of fat from sacrificial animals was prohibited.
Leviticus 7:23-25 commands the Israelites not to eat the fat of oxen, sheep, or goats, emphasizing that anyone who does so will be cut off from their people. This prohibition underscores the idea that the best portions are reserved for God.
3.
Symbolism of Abundance and Blessing: In some contexts, fat symbolizes abundance and blessing. For instance,
Proverbs 11:25 uses the imagery of fat to describe prosperity: "A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." Here, fat is metaphorically linked to the idea of richness and generosity.
4.
Spiritual Significance: The offering of fat in sacrifices can be seen as a symbol of dedicating the best of one's life and resources to God. It reflects the principle of honoring God with the first and finest, as seen in the broader biblical theme of firstfruits and tithes.
In summary, both blood and fat hold significant roles in the biblical sacrificial system, symbolizing life, covenant, atonement, and the dedication of the best to God. These elements are woven throughout the Scriptures, pointing to deeper spiritual truths and the ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
