Definition: 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.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 7:18. It’s a pretty serious warning about food and sacrifice! Here's a simplified explanation: Basically, this verse says that eating the flesh of a sacrificed animal (like a lamb or goat) on the third day is considered a terrible thing – it’s an abomination and will bring shame to the person who offers it. Let’s unpack it further: “And if [any] of the flesh of the sacrifice of his peace offerings be eaten at all on the third day…” This means that specifically , on the third day after the animal is sacrificed, you cannot eat any part of its flesh. It's a very strict rule. “…it shall not be accepted, neither shall it be imputed unto him that offereth it:” This is the core of the warning. “Imputed” means “accounted for” or “approved.” If you eat the flesh on the third day, it’s not considered good and will bring shame to the person who offered it. It's a sign of sin and wrongdoing. “it shall be an abomination, and the soul that eateth of it shall bear his iniquity.” This is a strong phrase. “Abomination” means something that is deeply offensive or unpleasant. "Bear his iniquity" means that the person who eats this flesh will carry the consequences of their sin – they'll be burdened with guilt and shame. In simpler terms: The verse warns against eating the meat of a sacrificed animal on the third day because it’s considered an unacceptable offering, bringing shame to the person who offered it. It’s a clear prohibition against consuming something that is deemed offensive by God. Why is this important in the Bible? This law was established to protect the holiness and sanctity of the sacrifices. It's a reminder that God values his own holiness above all else, and that offering sacrificial animals is a way for people to show devotion and seek God’s favor. Does this have any practical implications today? While we don’t eat the meat on the third day in modern times, it speaks to a fundamental principle: God values purity and holiness. It encourages us to be mindful of our actions and intentions – to avoid things that would defile or dishonor God's presence. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse further, perhaps relate it to a specific context in the Bible?