Leviticus 2:11-13 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

Notable things.

After describing the minchah under sundry forms, and before proceeding to the meat offering of the firstfruits, certain notable things are mentioned which the minchah has in common with sacrifices in general. These now claim attention, viz.—

I. THE PROHIBITION OF LEAVEN (verse. 11). The reasons of this appear to be:

1 . Because of its fermenting properties.

2 . That the Hebrews might be reminded of their deliverance from Egypt.

II. THE PROHIBITION OF HONEY ( Leviticus 2:11 ). The reasons of this appear to be:

1 . Because honey was a symbol of carnal pleasures.

(a) considering these as types of Christ,

(b) considering them also as types of such spiritual sacrifices as we can present acceptably to God through Christ. Another reason may be:

2 . Because honey was offered with the abominations of the heathen.

III. THE REQUISITION OF SALT ( Leviticus 2:13 ). The reason of this appears in the many excellent things of which salt was the symbol.

1 . It was a symbol of purity.

2 . It was a symbol of friendship.

(1) The effect of a covenant to the faithful is friendship. So, in token of friendship, the ancient Greeks ate bread and salt together. And the Russian emperors had a custom, derived to them from antiquity, of sending bread and salt from their tables to persons they intended to honour.

3 . It was a symbol of perpetuity.

4 . The qualities of salt should distinguish all sacrifices.