Leviticus 3:1 Meaning and Explanation
“And if his oblation be a sacrifice of peace offering, if he offer it of the herd; whether it be a male or female, he shall offer it without blemish before the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A peace offering must come from the herd and be without blemish.
The Context of Leviticus 3:1
The peace offering protocol begins with selection criteria.
What Does Leviticus 3:1 Mean?
The peace offering (shalom) was a voluntary gift to God expressing thanks, seeking favor, or fulfilling a vow. The worshiper presented a choice animal—male or female—from cattle, signifying the costliness of true devotion and the necessity of purity in approaching God.
This practice reflects the principle that worship requires giving something genuinely valuable, not merely leftover or defective goods. The animal's wholeness mirrors the worshiper's intended sincerity.
Leviticus 3:1 in the Original Language
shalom (שָׁלוֹם), 'peace' — completeness, wholeness, harmony with God; the offering aimed at restoring or maintaining relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 3:1
What does Leviticus 3:1 mean?
A peace offering must come from the herd and be without blemish.
What is the context of Leviticus 3:1?
The peace offering protocol begins with selection criteria.