Leviticus 1:2 Meaning and Explanation
“Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, If any man of you bring an offering unto the LORD, ye shall bring your offering of the cattle, even of the herd, and of the flock.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →From the very first, God makes a way for people to come near to Him.
The Context of Leviticus 1:2
The opening words of the book of offerings. The tabernacle has just been finished (Exodus 40), and now God speaks from it (Leviticus 1:1), teaching Israel how a holy God may be approached. The first offering He describes is the burnt offering, given wholly to Him.
What Does Leviticus 1:2 Mean?
Worship here begins with a single verb: bring. The worshipper brings an offering from the herd or the flock, something costly and his own, and lays it before the LORD. The Hebrew word for offering means 'that which is brought near,' and that is its whole purpose. Sinful people cannot simply walk into the presence of a holy God, so God Himself provides the way: an offering stands in, and the worshipper is welcomed.
Every page of this book points beyond itself. The blood of bulls and goats could never finally take away sin; it was given to teach Israel and to prepare them for what was coming (Hebrews 10:1-4). It was preparing them for Jesus, who gave Himself as the one offering that makes us clean for good and brings us near to God once and for all. What Israel rehearsed at the altar, Christ fulfilled at the cross.
Leviticus 1:2 in the Original Language
qorban (קׇרְבָּן), 'offering' -- that which is brought near, from a root meaning to draw near.
How to Apply Leviticus 1:2 Today
We do not have to build an altar or bring a lamb. The offering has already been made, and in Christ the way to God stands open. We come near now through Him, welcomed by the God who from the very first wanted His people close.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 1:2
What does Leviticus 1:2 mean?
From the very first, God makes a way for people to come near to Him.
What is the context of Leviticus 1:2?
The opening words of the book of offerings. The tabernacle has just been finished (Exodus 40), and now God speaks from it (Leviticus 1:1), teaching Israel how a holy God may be approached. The first offering He describes is the burnt offering, given wholly to Him.
How can I apply Leviticus 1:2 today?
We do not have to build an altar or bring a lamb. The offering has already been made, and in Christ the way to God stands open. We come near now through Him, welcomed by the God who from the very first wanted His people close.