Leviticus 7:18
And if any of the flesh of the sacrifice of his peace offerings be eaten at all on the third day, it shall not be accepted, neither shall it be imputed unto him that offereth it: it shall be an abomination, and the soul that eateth of it shall bear his iniquity.
Leviticus 7:18 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, which is part of the regulations for peace offerings in the book of Leviticus, it is specified that any meat from the sacrifice that is not consumed by the third day should not be eaten. If it is, it will be considered an abomination and the person who consumes it will bear their iniquity. This rule was put in place to ensure that the people showed proper reverence and respect for the sacrifices they were offering to God. By following this directive, they were demonstrating their obedience and commitment to God's laws. The third day symbolizes completion and fullness, so by violating this rule, it would signify a lack of respect for the sacredness of the offering and a disregard for God's instructions. This verse serves as a reminder to the Israelites of the importance of following God's commandments and honoring Him in their actions.
Theological Overview
Within the context of Leviticus 7:18, the theological interpretation centers around the significance of following the proper protocol and timing when presenting a peace offering to the Lord. The verse emphasizes the importance of adhering to the instructions given by God when it comes to offering sacrifices. By highlighting the specific prohibition against eating the flesh of the sacrifice on the third day, it underscores the need for obedience and reverence in worship. This verse also serves as a reminder that disobedience carries consequences, as the sacrifice will not be accepted and will be considered an abomination. The soul that partakes of the sacrifice after the allotted time will bear the burden of their iniquity, reinforcing the idea of personal responsibility for one's actions. The language used in this verse conveys a sense of seriousness and solemnity in the observance of divine commands, setting a standard for proper worship practices in the eyes of the Lord.
Leviticus 7:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
And if any of the flesh of the sacrifice of his peace-offerings be eaten on the third day, it shall not be accepted, neither shall it be imputed unto him that offereth it: it shall be an abomination, and the soul that eateth of it shall bear his iniquity.
World English Bible
If any of the flesh of the sacrifice of his peace offerings is eaten on the third day, it will not be accepted, neither shall it be imputed to him who offers it. It will be an abomination, and the soul who eats any of it will bear his iniquity.
Douay-Rheims
If any man eat of the flesh of the victim of peace offerings on the third day, the oblation shall be of no effect: neither shall it profit the offerer. Yea rather, whatsoever soul shall defile itself with such meat, shall be guilty of transgression.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For if any of the flesh of his peace offrings be eaten in the third day, he shall not be accepted that offereth it, neither shall it be reckoned vnto him, but shalbe an abomination: therefore ye person that eateth of it shall beare his iniquitie.