Sweet Rest

Throughout Leviticus 1-7, after a sacrifice is offered it ascends in smoke into the presence of God where it is a “sweet aroma” to the Lord. The word for “aroma” or “smell” is the word NICHOACH which is not far from the word NOACH which is the word for the name “Noah.” We know the words are related simply by meaning. Noah’s name means “rest” and the word here means “pleasant” or “soothing.” We could say that the smell of the sacrifice brings “rest” to Yahweh. The sacrifice brings Sabbath to the conflict of sin and rebellion between God and man.

What’s neat is that the book of Leviticus ends with several chapters dwelling on the Sabbaths of Israel (Lev. 23, 25-27). The book begins describing the rituals of making peace with Yahweh, the sacrifices that ascend to give rest to the Lord. And the book ends with instructions for how Israel is to live in this rest and peace. They are to be Sabbath keepers and Sabbath givers. As they have been forgiven, they are to be forgivers.