“If they offer it as an expression of thankfulness, then along with this
thank offering they are to offer thick loaves made without yeast and with olive
oil mixed in, thin loaves made without yeast and brushed with oil, and thick
loaves of the finest flour well-kneaded and with oil mixed in. Along with their fellowship offering of
thanksgiving they are to present an offering with thick loaves of bread made
with yeast.” Leviticus 7:12-13
A
fellowship (or peace) offering was a gift expressing love to placate a
relationship. It was a way to make sure
that the relationship was good between the person and God. In the Bible this fellowship offering could be
given freely, as a gesture of appreciation (Leviticus 7:12), or to celebrate a
vow that was fulfilled (Leviticus 7:16).
Unlike
other offerings eaten completely by the priest (sin offerings) or totally
burned up (burnt offerings), this one was consumed by the priest and the one
offering the sacrifice.