Why weren’t the Israelites allowed to eat fat?
Question:
First, I wanted to say thank you for all that you do! Your articles are very helpful in learning the truth of God's word. I am contacting you today because I saw a discussion for which I did not have an answer. It concerns Leviticus 3:17, "It shall be a statute forever throughout your generations, in all your dwelling places, that you eat neither fat nor blood.”
I’ve read a few of your articles about it being still sinful to eat the blood of an animal, and I agree with your conclusion that we should not do that. However, I have not seen any discussion on the “fat” part of that Scripture in your articles. If the first part of that verse is still in force for those living under New Testament Law, then so would the part about not eating fat. Can you clarify what the word “fat” would include today if it is a sin to consume that part of an animal today? Would it include fat on steaks, using lard to cook with, pork belly, hotdogs, and many other meats containing or containing fat?
Your insight on this subject would be very appreciated! Thanks again, and God bless!
Answer:
The context of Leviticus 3:17 is the various laws dealing with how peace offerings were to be offered (Leviticus 3:1). Peace offerings were to show fellowship between the worshiper and God. When combined with other sacrifices, the peace offering was always the last offering done, as sin must be atoned before fellowship can exist with God. Individuals also offered peace offerings at appointed occasions, such as feasts, as the fulfillment of a vow, or as a freewill offering (Numbers 16:3; 29:39). When an individual offered a peace offering, he was allowed to choose whatever he desired within specific guidelines.
When the peace offering involved a clean animal, the blood was poured out before the altar. The fat, kidneys, and liver were offered up as a burnt offering (Leviticus 3:3-5). What remained could be eaten by the offerer and the priests (Leviticus 7:11-18), so long as it was consumed within 48 hours. Any leftovers beyond that time were to be burnt. Leviticus 3:17 emphasizes that the fat belongs solely to God.
We don't offer animal sacrifices in the New Testament. The prohibition against drinking blood comes from God's covenant with Noah (Genesis 9:4). The Law of Moses and the Law of Christ continue that prohibition. It is broader because it was not limited to just sacrifices.
