1. Leviticus 1:2 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What kind of animal comes from the herd?

Leviticus 1:2 (ESV)

2 “Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, When any one of you brings an offering to the LORD, you shall bring your offering of livestock from the herd or from the flock.

The word “livestock” (bᵉhēmāh) often refers to larger domestic animals (e.g., cattle). The term may also include smaller animals such as sheep or goats. The point that the author is making is that cultic sacrifices were to be taken from domestic animals, not wild animals. According to Deuteronomy 14:4–5, wild animals could be eaten if handled correctly, but could not be offered as a sacrifice to the Lord as it cost nothing.1