Definition: The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 6:13. It's a really important and somewhat complex passage about cleansing and remembrance. Here’s a simple explanation: What it says: “The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.” In simpler terms, it means: “This ritual – this act of burning animal sacrifices – is meant to always be happening on the altar. It’s a constant reminder that God has forgiven those who have broken his rules and that He will continue to forgive them if they show repentance.” Let's unpack it a little further: The Fire: The fire represents God's judgment and purification. It's a powerful symbol of punishment for sin. “Ever Burning”: This is the key part. It emphasizes permanence . The fire must continue to burn. There’s no stopping it. It’s a promise that God will never let this act of sacrifice cease. “Upon the Altar”: The altar was a special place where sacrifices were made. It symbolized the connection between God and his people. “It Shall Never Go Out”: This is the core message – this action must continue indefinitely . It's not just about burning one sacrifice; it’s about maintaining this constant state of purification and remembrance. What was happening? In ancient times, when Israel disobeyed God’s laws, they would offer animal sacrifices to make amends for their sins. This ritual (Leviticus 6) was a way to permanently cleanse themselves of those sins and to show that they were truly sorry and committed to obeying God’s law. It was a promise of ongoing forgiveness. Why is it important? This verse highlights the importance of constant obedience and repentance. It's a reminder that God’s judgment isn’t just about punishment, but also about restoration and renewal through acknowledging our mistakes. Resources to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Leviticus/16](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Leviticus/16) - This page has a good explanation with visuals and context. The Rambler Bible Dictionary: [https://www.rambler.net/lexicon/leviticus/fire.htm](https://www.rambler.net/lexicon/leviticus/fire.htm) – A more detailed explanation of the verse’s meaning and historical context. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Give you a quick summary of its significance?