ויקרא, פרק ט׳, פסוק י״ט

Bringing the sacrificial offerings to the altar involves a careful selection and arrangement of specific animal parts, blending the offerings of both the ox and the ram. The process distinguishes between the two animals while highlighting the exact portions destined to be burned. The general fats of the ox are grouped together collectively, as their specific details are already established from earlier instructions. In contrast, the parts of the ram are singled out because they include a unique addition: the choice, heavy fat tail.

A central element of this offering is the covering fat, a concept that sparks different understandings among scholars. The primary approach among commentators is that this refers strictly to the specific fat covering the intestines. This unique layer stands alone as a distinct portion, while the remaining fats are either grouped together generally or remain attached to their respective organs. Another perspective identifies this covering simply as a specific membrane [העמק דבר]. However, a different approach suggests that this is not a single anatomical part at all [רמב״ן], [רש״ר הירש], [רד״צ הופמן]. Instead, it serves as a descriptive term for all the fats burned on the altar. According to this view, the defining characteristic of sacrificial fat is that it wraps and covers the organs from the outside—whether the intestines, kidneys, or flanks—distinguishing it from ordinary fat that is mixed directly into the meat.

Finally, the kidneys and the lobe of the liver from both animals complete the offering. These specific organs are placed on top of all the other fats during the waving and burning process as a mark of respect. Beyond physical placement, there is a deeper purpose to this arrangement [רלב״ג]. Positioning the kidneys and the liver at the very top of the offering, even though they are not the richest or fattest portions, is designed to capture the attention of the person bringing the sacrifice. It encourages the individual to reflect deeply on why God chose these specific organs, ultimately guiding them toward a meaningful spiritual awakening.