Leviticus 22:21
And whosoever offereth a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD to accomplish his vow, or a freewill offering in beeves or sheep, it shall be perfect to be accepted; there shall be no blemish therein.
Leviticus 22:21
In Leviticus 22, God governs the acceptable offerings of Israel, detailing not just what may be offered but how it must be offered. Leviticus 22:21 sits within a section on vows and freewill offerings, emphasizing that offerings accompanying a vow or given freely must be “perfect” and blemish-free. In the ancient world, blemishes in an animal could signal impurity or inauspiciousness; Israel’s system requires the best because the sacrifice honors Yahweh and images a parable of moral integrity. Culturally, this was not merely about ritual cleanliness but about the worshiper’s inner fidelity—God desires wholehearted devotion, not second-rate compliance. The term “perfect” (tam) signals a complete, intact, unblemished sacrifice, suitable for approaching the holy God.
This verse anchors holiness in practical ethics: excellence in worship reflects reverence for God. It locates righteousness not only in ritual act but in the condition of what is offered. The call for an unblemished sacrifice reinforces the idea that God’s holiness demands purity, and that offerings symbolize the integrity of the worshiper’s life. It also guards against cheap offerings used to buy religious acceptance, calling worshipers to give their best as a response to God’s goodness. The balance between vow and freely given offerings shows that both promises and spontaneous gifts are meaningful when offered with integrity.
Today, “unblemished” can translate to giving our best in worship and service. If you’re praying a vow or offering time, ask: Am I giving God what reflects my best—effort, resources, or time? It’s not about perfection in every detail but about sincerity and integrity. For practical application, consider a time you’ve pledged to support a cause or serve in ministry; then reflect on whether you’re stewarding that commitment responsibly—no half-measures, no ulterior motives. In family life, this can mean presenting your best in relationships, not excuses or “blemishes” of neglect. The principle is about honoring God with the fullness of our gifts, whether tangible resources or personal talents.
Cross-References
- Exodus 12:5
- Deuteronomy 15:21
- Malachi 1:8
- Leviticus 22:19-20
- 1 Corinthians 5:7-8