Leviticus 3:17Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Cyril. Concerning the sheep and the goat, the same principle applies; both underwent the same sacrificial rite executed in a consistent fashion. The difference in their sizes serves as a poignant symbol of the devotion and honor of those presenting the offering. The more substantial and worthy animal, represented by the calf, signifies greater piety, while the sheep denotes a moderate level of faithfulness, and the goat, being smaller, reflects even less. This parallels the teaching in the Gospel parable, where the fruitful soil yielded harvests of ‘a hundred,’ ‘sixty,’ and ‘thirty’ (Matt. 13:8:23). Palladius. Concord.

Refrain from consuming tuk tuk, as it numbs the body and results in a loss of control. Avoid blood, for it is the sustenance of wild animals. Anyone who partakes of fat acts in sacrilege, taking what is dedicated to the Lord without returning to Him what is meant for His purpose. Furthermore, consuming blood places a mark of sin upon all who approach.

God instructs us to refrain from blood and tuk, mandating that both be presented on the altar. This is because blood is associated with life, while tuk represents purity. Both should rightfully be devoted to God as an offering.