Leviticus on the Butcher’s Block

In Leviticus on the Butcher’s Block, Phil Bray helps you make sense of the Bible’s toughest book.

Phil Bray was meant to write this book. I don’t think anyone else could have written it! Being a butcher, he brings a unique insight and affinity for the sacrificial system found in the book of Leviticus. The chapters were inspired by key words in Leviticus 1:3–9.

The book begins by explaining the Jewish understanding that when something burns, it turns into smoke that rises into the heavens. To sacrifice was to send something upward toward God. Biblical sacrifice is less about giving something up, and more about giving something upward—to share something with our Creator.

Fascinating and Captivating

I was most stunned to read that the actual sacrifice on the altar was not the entire animal, but it specifically consisted of the meat. It was the food. The idea of sacrifice as an invitation to feast with our Creator is made clear. Bray brings the book of Leviticus to life, making it approachable, interesting, and easier to understand.

The book does venture into some speculation, and I believe Bray acknowledges this—such as when Leviticus 1:4 mentions a hand being placed on the head of the burnt offering for it to be accepted as atonement. Bray draws a connection to Jesus but admits he cannot find where a hand was placed on Christ’s head—and concludes that this detail is not necessary for understanding Jesus’ sacrifice.

All in all, this book is a fascinating and captivating look at Leviticus—something I honestly did not think was possible. It will help you draw out the truth from Leviticus, point you to the Lord Jesus Christ, and worship Him for His sacrifice.

I received a media copy of Leviticus on the Butcher’s Block and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.