Definition: And the priest of his sons that is anointed in his stead shall offer it: [it is] a statute for ever unto the LORD; it shall be wholly burnt.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Leviticus 6:22. It’s a really important and somewhat complex verse about how to deal with someone who has committed a serious sin – specifically, a ritual murder. Here’s a simple explanation: What’s Happening? A Ritual Murder: This verse describes a situation where a man (or woman) had a child and killed them. It’s a horrific act of violence. The Priest Takes Over: The Bible says that the priest – someone who was responsible for overseeing the sacrifices in the temple – is now temporarily in charge. He’s essentially stepping into a position of leadership to ensure the situation is handled properly and doesn't cause further problems. Offering a Statue: He’s tasked with offering a specific item – a statute – to God forever. This means it will never be forgotten, and it will always be dedicated to Him. Burning It Completely: The most crucial part is that the priest must completely burn this item (the child's corpse) in an altar. It’s not just a temporary thing; it has to be destroyed entirely. What Does This Mean? This verse is about making amends for a terrible crime and preventing future harm. It’s a way of saying, "We acknowledge this terrible act, and we're taking steps to ensure it never happens again." Key Takeaway: It's a serious punishment and a symbolic act of atonement. The priest is essentially saying, "I'm taking responsibility for this and dedicating this item to God so that the consequences are stopped." Important Context (Briefly): This verse comes during a time when Israel was facing a major problem with ritual murder – a man named Korah had killed his brother. The passage is essentially a legal declaration that the nation would be safe from further bloodshed. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Leviticus 6? Give you some historical context about this event? Discuss the meaning of the symbolism behind the verse?