Exodus 29:13Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The kidneys symbolize the ability to discern thoughts, as they are responsible for filtering bodily fluids. The term “thuk on the kidneys” refers to the activities of the soul and the processes of thought. Regarding the liver, it is noted that the liver is the origin of desire, which is why offerings should be made to God concerning the “thuk on the liver” and “on the womb,” since they are the fundamental sources of all desires.

The fat from the womb was presented as an offering on the altar. As Moses states, "And thou shalt take all the fat that is in the womb, both kidneys, and the fat that is on them, and the web of the liver." Through this, our inclinations are spiritually signified. The covering of the womb symbolizes the sin of gluttony, the kidneys represent sensuality, and the web of the liver signifies irritability, as the organ related to bile is associated with the liver. The law instructs that these elements be sacrificed to signify the death of the wicked actions they embody.

The incineration of the offering beyond the encampment is an integral aspect of the ceremonial process for the sin offering associated with both the priest and the congregation (Lev. 4:12 and 21). Unlike the sin offerings performed by the Israelites, where the sacrifice was consumed by the priests, these particular offerings were not incinerated outside the camp.