Leviticus 7:34
For the wave breast and the heave shoulder have I taken of the children of Israel from off the sacrifices of their peace offerings, and have given them unto Aaron the priest and unto his sons by a statute for ever from among the children of Israel.
Leviticus 7:34
Leviticus 7:34 proclaims that the wave breast and the heave shoulder are taken from Israel’s sacrifices and given to Aaron and his sons “by a statute forever.” This verse formalizes the perpetual provision for the priestly family as part of the covenantal arrangement. The phrase “from off the sacrifices of their peace offerings” indicates these portions are drawn from the same sacrifices that Israel brings to God, reinforcing the shared nature of worship and the sustenance of those who minister in the sanctuary. The term “wave breast” and “heave shoulder” refer to specific ritual movements during offerings, emphasizing the intentional, ceremonial aspects of worship. The “statute forever” language highlights the permanence of the arrangement in Israel’s civil-religious life, shaping the expectations for generations.
This verse centers the priesthood within the fabric of covenant blessing. The perpetual provision for Aaron and his sons reflects God’s ongoing care for those who dedicate themselves to mediating between God and the people. It also demonstrates the communal solidarity of worship: the people’s offerings sustain the priests, who in turn sustain the people through faithful ministry. The permanence of this arrangement underscores the seriousness and stability God desires in religious life. The ritual language (wave and heave) signals that worship involves not only belief but action—movements and gestures that codify devotion and gratitude.
In modern terms, Leviticus 7:34 invites churches to recognize and support ministry leaders as essential to worship. Consider practical ways your church “sustains” its pastors and staff—financial compensation, sabbaticals, mentoring, and honoring their spiritual leadership. This verse also encourages a culture of gratitude: when leaders serve, the community’s faithful worship and communal life benefit. Beyond paid staff, you can support volunteers who enable worship to function—tech teams, hospitality crews, or small group leaders. Practically, adopt a rhythm that sustains leaders: time off, peer support, and opportunities for ongoing learning. The broader takeaway: a healthy faith community shares responsibility for sustaining those who give leadership to God’s people.
Cross-References: Exodus 29:28; Numbers 18:8-9; 1 Samuel 2:29-30; 2 Thessalonians 3:8-10; Hebrews 7:5