Leviticus 1:14Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

the east side of the altar, where the ashes are; he shall split it at the wings, but not sever them; the priest shall burn it on the altar, upon the wood that is on the fire: it is a burnt offering, a sacrifice, a pleasant aroma to the Lord” (Lev. 1:14-17). Notice how beautifully and wisely it is illustrated that the saints are conformed to Christ; for He is indeed the most exalted and melodious turtledove, embodying perfect meekness. It is said of Him in the Song of Songs, “the voice of the turtledove is heard in the land” (Song of Songs 2:12). He serves as our ultimate model of profound and supreme humility, as He taught: “Learn from Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:29). The saints, reflecting Christ’s image, strive diligently to embody these commendable qualities; they may also be seen as doves, imparting the divine and holy word to their listeners, joyfully praising the glory of God. Hence, they declare, “my tongue ... shall learn Thy righteousness; all the day long Thy praise” (Psalm 70:24:14:15). Their lives are devoted to Christ as they walk humbly in the path of the Gospel, responding with gentleness when struck on one cheek, offering the other, and when compelled to go one mile, going two (Matthew 5:39-41). They dedicate themselves to the sweet aroma of service and burnt offerings to God, akin to doves and pigeons. As the priest removes the head and offers it on the altar, spilling its blood, so too, the minds of the saints are truly holy, deserving devotion to the most sacred God. Their minds are replete with virtuous thoughts and are fragrant with the peace of divine wisdom: “the thoughts of the righteous are right,” as it is written (Proverbs 12:5). The sanctity of those who live in the fear of God is underscored by the shedding of blood upon the holy altar, representing life itself. The birds’ larynx, or crop with feathers, is discarded, indicating that the life of the saints transcends bodily comforts to the point where sustenance appears unnecessary. This is especially true for those who pursue asceticism, who disregard physical nourishment, subdue their desires, and free themselves from worldly excess. This signifies the removal of feathers; while essential for birds, such things as clothing and means for survival are viewed by the holy as mere trivialities. Although these provisions hold significance for those inhabiting the earthly realm, the saints regard them with disdain, often living almost in a state of nudity, reluctant to satisfy bodily needs beyond what is immediately available. As the feathers are stripped away, and the crop or larynx is removed, it is commanded, “let it be broken, but not divided,” and then let it be presented “upon the altar.” The breaking of the wings symbolizes the humble mindset of the saints, who focus on modest thoughts rather than lofty aspirations (Rom. 12:16). Those of pride are typically engaged in the pursuit of greatness, refusing to embrace humility and deeming modest thoughts beneath them. Thus, the broken wings illustrate the relinquishing of arrogance. The undivided wings represent those who have dedicated their entire lives, wholly devoted to God, reminiscent of Paul’s remarks on the separation of marital obligations (1 Cor. 7:33). The minds of the saints are therefore sacred, and their lives reflect holiness, transcending bodily pleasures, disengaged from worldly concerns, and adorned with humble thoughts, undivided between God and earthly ties. Consequently, their lives ascend as a fragrant offering to the Lord. Palladius. Indeed.