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Leviticus 7:31 - Priestly portions, divine service.

Leviticus 7:31 - ויקרא 7:31

Hebrew Text

וְהִקְטִיר הַכֹּהֵן אֶת־הַחֵלֶב הַמִּזְבֵּחָה וְהָיָה הֶחָזֶה לְאַהֲרֹן וּלְבָנָיו׃

English Translation

And the priest shall burn the fat upon the altar: but the breast shall be Aharon’s and his sons’.

Transliteration

Vehiktir hakohen et-hachelev hamizbecha vehaya hechazeh le'Aharon ulevanav.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְהִקְטִ֧יר הַכֹּהֵ֛ן אֶת־הַחֵ֖לֶב הַמִּזְבֵּ֑חָה וְהָיָה֙ הֶֽחָזֶ֔ה לְאַהֲרֹ֖ן וּלְבָנָֽיו׃
וְהִקְטִ֧יר הַכֹּהֵ֛ן אֶת־הַחֵ֖לֶב הַמִּזְבֵּ֑חָה וְהָיָה֙ הֶֽחָזֶ֔ה לְאַהֲרֹ֖ן וּלְבָנָֽיו׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Explanation of the Verse

The verse (Vayikra 7:31) discusses the division of certain portions of sacrifices between the altar and the Kohanim (priests). The fat (חֵלֶב) is burned on the altar as an offering to Hashem, while the breast (חָזֶה) is given to Aharon and his sons as part of their priestly portion.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi (Vayikra 7:31) explains that the term "הֶחָזֶה" refers specifically to the breast of the animal, which is given to the Kohanim as one of their portions. He notes that this is part of the broader system of priestly gifts (תְּרוּמוֹת) established in the Torah.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot (9:10), the Rambam elaborates on the laws of the priestly portions, stating that the breast is one of the two primary gifts given to the Kohanim from peace offerings (שלמים), along with the right thigh (שׁוֹק). He emphasizes that these portions are a perpetual statute (חוקת עולם) for the Kohanim.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Chullin 134b) discusses the precise method of separating the breast and its distribution to the Kohanim, emphasizing the importance of proper ritual procedure.
  • Midrash Torat Kohanim (Sifra) connects this verse to the broader theme of sustaining the Kohanim, who dedicate their lives to Divine service and rely on these gifts for their livelihood.

Symbolic Meaning

The Kli Yakar (Vayikra 7:31) offers a deeper interpretation, suggesting that the fat represents the inner vitality of the sacrifice, wholly dedicated to Hashem, while the breast—a symbol of wisdom and emotion (as it is near the heart)—is given to the Kohanim to elevate their spiritual service.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Chullin 134b
The verse is discussed in the context of the laws regarding the portions of sacrifices that are given to the priests, specifically the breast and the thigh.
📖 Menachot 62a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the proper procedures for offering sacrifices and the distribution of the sacrificial portions to the priests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Leviticus 7:31 mean?
A: Leviticus 7:31 describes the division of parts of certain sacrifices. The fat of the offering is burned on the altar for Hashem, while the breast (חָזֶה) is given to Aharon and his sons, the Kohanim (priests), as their portion. This teaches the importance of honoring those who serve in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) or Beit Hamikdash (Temple).
Q: Why was the breast given to Aharon and his sons?
A: The breast (חָזֶה) was given to the Kohanim as part of their sustenance for their service in the Mishkan and later the Beit Hamikdash. Rashi explains that this was one of the gifts to the Kohanim to ensure they could focus on their holy duties without worldly concerns (see Rashi on Leviticus 7:31).
Q: What can we learn from Leviticus 7:31 today?
A: Although we no longer bring sacrifices today, we learn the importance of supporting Torah scholars and those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service. Just as the Kohanim received portions from offerings, we are encouraged to contribute to those who teach and uphold Torah (based on Rambam, Hilchot Matnot Aniyim 8:10).
Q: Why was the fat burned on the altar?
A: The fat (חֵלֶב) was considered the choicest part of the animal and was entirely burned on the altar as an offering to Hashem. This symbolizes giving the best of what we have to Hashem (see Vayikra Rabbah 3:3). The Torah prohibits eating certain fats (חֵלֶב), as they are reserved for the altar.
Q: Does this verse apply when there is no Temple?
A: While the actual offering of sacrifices only applies when the Beit Hamikdash stands, the principle of honoring Torah scholars and supporting those who serve in spiritual roles remains relevant. The Talmud (Chullin 133a) discusses how some priestly gifts still apply in certain ways even today.