Leviticus 9:18
He slew also the bullock and the ram for a sacrifice of peace offerings, which was for the people: and Aaron’s sons presented unto him the blood, which he sprinkled upon the altar round about,
Leviticus 9:18
This verse continues the ceremonial sequence of Aaron’s offerings on the day of inauguration. In addition to the grain offering, Aaron “slue [the bullock] and the ram for a sacrifice of peace offerings, which was for the people.” Peace offerings (also called communion offerings) were shared meals that celebrated fellowship with God and the community. The person offering the sacrifice received portions of the meat, while portions were burned on the altar as a fragrant aroma to God. Here, Aaron’s sons present the blood “which he sprinkled upon the altar round about,” signifying purification and ritual accessibility to God through the altar. Sprinkling the blood around the altar symbolized cleansing and the transfer of guilt to the sacrificial animal, a common practice in Levitical worship.
Historically, this demonstrates the priestly role of mediation—God’s presence among the people is accessed through the sacrificial system, and the offerings serve to sustain peace and reconciliation within the covenant community.
The peace offering emphasizes fellowship with God and with one another. It is a public act of sharing and gratitude, pointing to restored relationship and God’s desire for communion with His people. The blood sprinkled around the altar underscores purification, while the eating of the sacrifice by the worshiper and the priest indicates communal participation in God’s grace. In the broader scriptural arc, peace offerings anticipate the relational fullness found in Christ—our reconciliation with God and one another, accomplished through Jesus’ sacrifice and ongoing spiritual fellowship.
For today, the principle is about shared worship and reconciliation. Congregational meals, church gatherings, or family worship can reflect this spirit of fellowship with God and others. Practice gratitude by sharing a meal with neighbors or those in need, and view resources as a means to build community, not just personal comfort. Embrace your role in mediating peace by offering forgiveness, extending hospitality, and supporting systems that promote justice and reconciliation. The idea that blood cleanses and restores invites believers to pursue spiritual cleansing through confession and reliance on Christ, while living out harmony in relationships.
Cross-References: Psalm 116:12-14; Hebrews 13:15; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; Leviticus 7:11-13; Ephesians 2:14